Tower Summer 2021

FEATURE ARTICLES 

Class of 2021 pgs. 6-20 

Francisco Lindor ’11 Pays 

It Forward pg. 24 

SUMMER 2021

HEAD OF SCHOOL 

Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring 

2020-21 BOARD OF TRUSTEES 

Mr. Tim J. Bach 

Mr. Sean Parks 

Mr. Jon Frere 

Mr. T. Scott Ohmstede 

Mrs. S. Renee Lundy ’79 Mrs. Lori Specht ’84 

Mr. Michael Mason ’84 Mrs. Sandra O. Stephens 

Dr. Sydney McPhee Dr. Walter L. Stephens, 

Mr. Gregory L. Nelson Trustee Emeritus, 1999-2020 

EX-OFFICIO 


STAFF 

Ashley Kesselring 

Michele Kanikovsky 

Ginny Holm 

Kimberly Braden 

Editor-in-Chief 

Creative Director 

Creative Editor 

Photographer 

Contributors include faculty, staff, students, and 

parents of Montverde Academy. 

ADDRESS CHANGES AND 

CORRESPONDENCE 

Montverde Academy 

The Tower Magazine 

17235 Seventh Street 

Montverde, FL 34756 

PRINTER 

Cromer International Press 

Above: Lujia Chang, Jennifer Ghivizzani, Duoshan Zhang, Kendyl 

Cardwell, Weston Baptiste, Kai Eisenhardt, Caleb Sheyda, Sofia Bilski, 

Menna Freeman 

On the cover: Class of 2021 

The Tower Magazine is published exclusively for the alumni, parents, students, friends, 

faculty and staff of Montverde Academy. It is intended to bring the latest news and 

information about the Academy’s growth and ongoing events. 

Every attempt has been made to present the information and listings in The Tower 

magazine as accurately as possible. We apologize if there are any discrepancies and 

would ask that you forward any amendments to our office. It is our policy to correct 

significant errors of fact in a timely fashion. 

FIND US ON SOCIAL 

Are you looking for photos, events, news and more? Montverde Academy provides the latest news and 

Eagle happenings on a variety of platforms. Follow us on: 

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Visit montverde.org 

2 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2021

SUMMER 2021 | VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2 

It has been my distinct honor and privilege to serve as the Director 

of Communications for more than three years at Montverde 

Academy. I’m not an educator by trade, but this position has 

afforded me the opportunity to get to know a wonderful team and 

community of administrators, educators, students, and families to 

tell the exciting success stories that are achieved on campus daily. 

I hope you enjoy this issue of The Tower that focuses on seniors 

and their achievements. We congratulate them on all that they have 

achieved this year! They have patiently endured and persevered in 

challenging times, gaining skills which will serve them well as they 

continue on their individual paths toward the future. 

The theme of our issue is Traditions with Passion and Purpose. We 

have aimed to go about the year as normally as possible, keeping 

as many traditions intact as possible. We have also achieved 

another major milestone in MVA’s history with the opening of 

Lindor Hall, our new Middle School named for Francisco Lindor, 

our lead donor, superstar MLB player and generous alumnus. It 

is a beautiful building where Middle School students will continue 

the tradition of pursuing excellence in academics. We have our 

Employee Spotlight, stories about each division, update on Alumni 

in Class Notes to learn more about what is happening at MVA. 

We welcome feedback and encourage you to share your thoughts 

with our team at ashley.kesselring@montverde.org. 

I wish you all a happy, safe and rejuvenating summer! 

Kind regards, 

Andrea L. Colby 

Director of Communications 

“Ability is what you’re 

capable of doing. 

Motivation determines 

what you do. Attitude 

determines how well 

you do it.” 

Lou Holtz 

IN THIS ISSUE 

8 

9 

22 

35 

2021 Valedictorian 

2021 Salutatorian 

Francisco Lindor Pays 

It Forward 

MVA in the NCAA Tournament 

CONTENTS 

Message from the Head of School...................... 4 

Parents’ Perspective.......................................... 12 

Pursuing Passion.............................................. 14 

Upper School Teacher of the Year..................... 21 

Employee Spotlight........................................... 22 

Kindergarten Graduation................................... 30 

Fifth Grade Graduation...................................... 31 

Lower School Teacher of the Year..................... 32 

Development Update......................................... 33 

Middle School Teacher of the Year.................... 34 

Student’s Artwork Wins Silver Award................. 35 

Sports Wrap Up................................................. 42 

College Signing Day.......................................... 44 

Fine Arts Achievements..................................... 46 

Alumni Relations............................................... 52 

Allison Fitzgerald ’20 Interns............................. 53 

Alumni Class Notes........................................... 54 

THE TOWER | SUMMER 2021 3

TRADITION 

of a strong 

WORK 

ETHIC 

By Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring, Head of School 


“This school was launched in the interest of the worthy poor of our country for the 

purpose of sending out men and women with a thorough education combining mental, 

moral, and industrial training. The institution believes that the best way to help the youth 

of our country is to help them help themselves.” Dr. H. P. Carpenter 

Since the onset of the pandemic in March of 2020, 

reflection has become a more welcomed attribute as we 

think of times perhaps better than the present or more 

appropriately consider our blessings and the many things 

for which we may take for granted. Dr. Henry P. Carpenter 

felt too many students were being denied access to a 

private school education as a result of socioeconomic 

conditions. He established a non-profit group that, in turn, 

created a board of officials to oversee the development 

of various stocks to be sold to create The Montverde 

Industrial School. From Boyle County, Kentucky, Dr. 

Carpenter traveled to Central Florida where he located a 

piece of land in the village of Montverde nestled between 

Lake Florence and Lake Apopka. 

The school was comprised of a small two-room building 

and church on 13 acres. No sale price was ever listed 

but records show the school paid $10.50 in taxes for 10 

plots of land. The school opened on September 23, 1912, 

with Dr. Carpenter serving as Head of School while his 

wife served as Lady Principal. With 20 faculty and nearly 

200 students, the administration building was erected in 

1912 and 1914; tuition was $132.00 per year. The school 

began to attract students of various socioeconomic 

backgrounds and developed a reputation for its rigorous 

academic and athletic programming. Students were 

required to earn half of their tuition by working for the 

betterment of the school and community. Boys worked 

in the fields farming potatoes, corn, and beans or 

assisting in the school maintenance shop repairing the 

infrastructure of the school and campus buildings. Girls 

were also expected to work in the make-shift kitchens 

preparing food for daily meals or in the living room 

making curtains, clothes, or rugs. Both boys and girls 

worked at a nearby steam cannery canning vegetables, 

fruit, and meats enriched from the school’s area farms. 

In 1922, Industrial was dropped from the school’s 

name, and it officially became known as The Montverde 

School (TMS). The word industrial possessed a 

negative connotation that was often associated with 

the penitentiary system at the time. The school desired 

to continue to establish itself as a strong academic 

institution instead of an improvement or reform school. In 

1923, a gift of $10,000 was made by Carrie F. Conrad to 

build the Carrie F. Conrad chapel. Before the dedication, 

Conrad insisted that the name of Karl Lehmann be added 

to the chapel’s dedication out of respect for Mr. Lehmann 

who conceptualized the original idea for a chapel on the 

campus. The Conrad-Lehmann building still stands today, 

and although it has been renovated numerous times over 

the past century, it still serves as a place of education. 


Throughout the decades ahead, the school managed 

to survive World War I, the Spanish Flu, the Great 

Depression, World War II, and the Vietnam War. In 

the 1960s, in an effort to continue to align itself with a 

commitment to strong academia, the Montverde School 

would once again alter its name to become 

Montverde Academy. 

Montverde Academy is the oldest private independent 

school in Central Florida. Even more remarkable, 

throughout its more than 108 years of history, it has had 

only seven Heads of School, three of which account 

for more than 90 years of the Academy’s 108-year 

history including Dr. Carpenter, Dr. Stephens, and Dr. 

Kesselring. In the modern era, the average tenure of a 

Head of School at a single school is four years. Scholarly 

research shows a marked correlation between student 

achievement and consistency in school leadership 

exhibiting a commitment to long-term planning and 

program implementation which can often get derailed 

amid frequent turnover in leadership. 

What does this mean? Despite the challenges of 

COVID-19 on schools around the world, Montverde 

Academy remained committed to its core values and 

continued to deliver a quality educational platform for 

students both in-person and distance learning. Moreover, 

as we examine the past, Montverde Academy has always 

been loyal to a fundamental principle‒work ethic. At its 

founding, the Academy instilled in its students a quality 

work ethic by challenging them both inside and outside 

the classroom, something we continue to do today. With 

more than 30 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 

dual enrollment opportunities at the University of Florida 

and Lake Sumter State College, as well as a host of 

challenging extra-curricular opportunities through various 

athletic, arts, and activity programs, our students are 

continuing to learn the value of building a strong work 

ethic that we anticipate will prove to be a solid foundation 

for post-secondary education. 

As we begin to see the light in the tunnel in the battle 

against COVID-19, and I reflect on our history, I am 

mindful that ours is not the worst of times. In 1918, The 

Spanish Flu was estimated to have infected a third of the 

world’s population at the time (500 million people) with 

an estimated 50 million deaths. Current COVID-19 data 

estimates 167 million infections and 3.47 million deaths; 

World War I claimed an estimated 20 million lives, World 

War II, 75 million. 

Examining our history can place things in perspective. 

Montverde Academy has a history of persevering through 

challenging times, and I am grateful that those who came 

before us remained loyal to our greatest strength‒our 

work ethic and to prepare our students to stand strong 

in the world‒“to help them to help themselves” by giving 

them the tools to succeed in a global economy and 

provide them with an education which challenges them 

and surrounds them with others from around the world to 

compete in the world. 

Campus in the early 1900s 

Campus in the early 1900s 


Class of 2021 

214 41 

GRADUATES 

SENIORS 

GRADUATED CUM LAUDE 

238 COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES 

Graduates were accepted to 238 colleges 

and universities 

16,758 hours 

of community service 

completed by the Senior class 


3 

AVERAGE AP 

EXAM SCORE 

13.2 MILLION 

Graduates were offered more than 13.2 million 

dollars in collegiate scholarships 

63 ATHLETIC 

SCHOLARSHIPS 

Twenty-nine percent of the 

graduating class received 

athletic scholarships. 

36 

COUNTRIES 

The class of 2021 had 36 countries 

represented 


CLASS OF 2021 

Valedictorian 

Kendyl Cardwell 

By Dr. Anne Browdy, Upper School Mathematics 

Montverde Academy’s Valedictorian for the Class of 2021 

is Kendyl Cardwell. I had the pleasure of having Kendyl 

as a math student her freshman, sophomore, and junior 

years for Pre-Calculus Honors, AP Calculus AB, and AP 

Calculus BC. She won the award for top Pre-Calculus 

Honors student as a freshman. She has an excellent 

understanding of the material and goes above and beyond 

what I expect of my students. She received a score of 5 

on the AP Calculus AB exam and a score of 5 on the AP 

Calculus BC exam. Kendyl is proud of accomplishing her 

goal of reaching Multi-Variable Calculus while still in high 

school. She took the course online through Johns Hopkins 

University this year. 

An interesting fact about Kendyl is that when she was 

younger, she was very focused on writing and thought 

she would pursue a career involving English. She comes 

from a literature-focused family. Her father was an English 

major, her aunt was an editor for the Wall Street Journal, 

and her grandmother was a writer. Kendyl, however, 

realized that she enjoys the STEM field even more. Her 

plan is to major in engineering and minor in English, and 

to find a way to combine the two areas in a unique way. 

Sounds interesting! 

A highly dedicated honor roll student-athlete, Kendyl is 

a member of the Distinguished Scholars Program and 

the Head of School’s Leadership Institute. She was 

recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction and earned 

a 2021 National Merit Scholarship. Kendyl has been a 

member of MVA’s Math Club and our competition Math 

Team for two years. This year, she helped the team win 

the annual ‘Mathlympics’ competition, hosted by Lake- 

Sumter State College. She has been a valuable member 

of our varsity girls cross country and track and field teams 

for several years, where she earned the Leadership and 

MVP awards. She recently competed at the state level in 

two events, the 1600m and 4x800m relay. 

Kendyl has enjoyed and gotten the most she could out of 

her six years at MVA. She has shared how grateful she 

is for the very supportive environment that the school 

has provided her; an environment in which she has felt 

comfortable challenging herself. She appreciates all 

the opportunities she was given and all of the excellent 

teachers she has had. Her time spent with the cross 

country and track & field teams will be some of her favorite 

memories and has shaped life-long friendships. One of 

the things I suspect she will miss the most is going to the 

coffee shop with those friends. 

MVA congratulates Kendyl on selecting the University of 

Chicago to attend in the fall. The University of Chicago 

is ranked among the best universities in the world and is 

among the most selective in the United States. Kendyl 

plans to study molecular engineering and will run for their 

women’s cross country and track & field teams. She feels 

that this university will be a great fit for her, academically 

and athletically, as their molecular engineering program is 

outstanding and she wants to study a subject in which she 

can make an impact. 

This young lady always has a smile on her face and a 

very positive outlook on the future. She is an extremely 

motivated individual and I have no doubt that she will 

achieve any goal she sets for herself. I feel very privileged 

to have had the opportunity to be Kendyl’s math teacher 

and getting the chance to know such an amazing person. 


CLASS OF 2021 

Salutatorian 

Lillia (Lilly) Anderson 

By Kyle Clapper, Upper School History 

There are few professions which share the paradox 

of parenting. It can be trying to invest such time, care, 

and patience to strengthen our students for the world 

beyond, just to see them leave. Though raising a child 

is considerably more difficult than being a teacher, our 

shared goal of preparing young minds is the same. 

Parents and teachers hope to impact the lives we are 

entrusted with and to equip them with the necessary skills 

to overcome any challenge. 

This preparation can be filled with frustration and 

difficulties, but there are times when the unexpected 

walks into your classroom. As a teacher, I aim to inspire 

students, but in the case of Lilly Anderson, MVA’s 2021 

Salutatorian, the roles have been flipped, and she has 

inspired me. 

The hardships of 2020 and 2021 didn’t impede the 

Class of 2021, but exposed its brilliance, found within 

the many MVA student leaders, like Lilly. The past year’s 

challenges did not define Lilly, but rather illuminated her 

excellence. Each perceived setback was an opportunity to 

demonstrate her genuine character that was forged in the 

fires of uncertainty and sharpened by the daily struggles of 

a high school senior. She weathered the storm, braced by 

her resolve and fortitude, and inspired her classmates to 

look beyond the expected to become extraordinary. 

During my time at MVA, I have had the privilege of 

working with Lilly in AP U.S. Government and being 

part of a memorable class trip to Washington D.C. She 

is an outstanding student and a marvelous person. It is 

students such as Lilly that fill my heart as a teacher. I 

recall helping her prepare for the Sons of the American 

Revolution Oration contest, a demanding experience 

which requires students to research, write, memorize, 

and deliver a speech about a Revolutionary War topic. 

I was struck by the passion of her message describing 

female empowerment and the role women played in 

the Revolutionary War was striking and inspiring. I was 

so proud of what this amazing young woman has and 

will accomplish, and her sense of optimism. Lilly did not 

simply deliver a speech – she carved a path of opportunity 

and promise for other young women. 

The right words fail me to fully chronicle the many stories 

of Lilly, and the many lives she has touched. I dread 

saying goodbye to students who have touched my life – 

and Lilly is a student to remember. There is no grade that 

can fully realize the impact this young person has had on 

MVA. 

She inspires others to reach further, to work harder, and 

to become the best version of oneself. She is a striking, 

courageous example of determination and hope. There 

is little doubt of the many lives Lilly will impact and the 

stories she will write. Though my heart will break as Lilly 

moves onto her next great adventure, I find comfort in this 

gift of a student who will soon be sharing her amazing 

talents with an even larger community. 

As some of you know my wife and I have just celebrated 

the birth of our first child, a little girl. It would be difficult to 

find a better student for my young daughter to aspire to 

than Lilly. She is an inspiration; she is the flower of MVA. 


College 

Acceptances 

Below is the list of college acceptances for the Class of 2021. 

Congratulations on your achievements! 

Abilene Christian University 

Adelphi University 

AdventHealth University 

American International College 

American University in Dubai 

Arcadia University 

Auburn University 

Ave Maria University 

Bard College 

Barry University 

Baylor University 

Belmont University 

Bentley University 

Berry College 

Birmingham Southern College 

Boston College 

Boston University 

Butler University 

California Baptist University 

California State Polytechnic 

University, Pomona 

Carlow University 

Carson-Newman University 

Case Western Reserve University 

Clark University 

Clemson University 

Colorado School of Mines 

Colorado State University 

Columbia College, South Carolina 

Concordia University Irvine 

Creighton University 

Crown College 

Davidson College 

Dean College 

DePaul University 

Drexel University 

East Carolina University 

Eastern University 

Eckerd College 

Elon University 

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, 

Daytona Beach 

Emerson College 

Emory University 

Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison 

Flagler College 

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical 

University 

Florida Atlantic University 

Florida Gulf Coast University 

Florida Institute of Technology 

Florida International University 

Florida Memorial University 

Florida Southern College 

Florida State University 

Fordham University 

Furman University 

George Mason University 

George Washington University 

Georgia Institute of Technology 

Georgia Southern University 

Gettysburg College 

Greensboro College 

Gonzaga University 

Goucher College 

Hawaii Pacific University 

Hendrix College 

High Point University 

Hillsborough Community College 

Hofstra University 

Houston Baptist University 

Howard University 

Hult International Business School 

Huntingdon College 

Illinois State University 

Independence Community College 

Indiana University, Bloomington 

Jacksonville University 

James Madison University 

Johnson & Wales University, Providence 

Keiser University 

LaGrange College 

Lake Sumter State College 

Lincoln Memorial University 

Louisiana State University 

Louisiana State University, Eunice 

Loyola University, Chicago 

Loyola University, New Orleans 

Luther College 

Lynn University 

Manhattan College 

Mars Hill University 

Marshall University 

Mercer University 

Mercy College 

Miami University, Oxford 

Montreat College 

New College of Florida 

New York University 

Newberry College 

Northeastern University 

Northwest Florida State College 

Nova Southeastern University 

Oxford College of Emory University 

Pace University 

Pacific University 

Parsons School of Design at 

The New School 

Pennsylvania State University, Abington 

Pennsylvania State University, Altoona 

Pennsylvania State University, University 

Park 

Point Park University 

Point University 

Purdue University 

Radford University 

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 

Regis University 

Rider University 

Rochester Institute of Technology 


Rollins College 

Roosevelt University 

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology 

Rowan University 

Rutgers University, New Brunswick 

Saint Leo University 

Santa Fe College 

Savannah College of Art & Design 

Seattle University 

Seton Hall University 

Simmons University 

Sonoma State University 

St. Andrews University 

St. John’s University 

St. Thomas University 

Stetson University 

Stevenson University 

Stony Brook University 

Suffolk University 

SUNY at Purchase College 

SUNY College of Environmental Science 

& Forestry 

SUNY University at Buffalo 

Swarthmore College 

Syracuse University 

Tallahassee Community College 

The Ohio State University 

The University of Alabama 

The University of Queensland 

The University of Scranton 

The University of Tampa 

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville 

The University of Texas, Arlington 

The University of West Florida 

United States Merchant Marine Academy 

United States Military Academy 

United States Naval Academy 

University of Arizona 

University of Arkansas 

University of British Columbia, 

Okanagan 

University of California, Davis 

University of California, Irvine 

University of California, Los Angeles 

University of California, Merced 

University of California, Riverside 

University of California, San Diego 

University of California, Santa Barbara 

University of California, Santa Cruz 

University of Central Florida 

University of Chicago 

University of Cincinnati 

University of Colorado, Boulder 

University of Connecticut 

University of Dallas 

University of Dayton 

University of Delaware 

University of Denver 

University of Florida 

University of Georgia 

University of Hartford 

University of Hawaii, Manoa 

University of Houston 

University of Illinois, Chicago 

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 

University of Kentucky 

University of Louisville 

University of Massachusetts, Amherst 

University of Massachusetts, Boston 

University of Miami 

University of Michigan 

University of Mississippi 

University of Minnesota Twin Cities 

University of New Haven 

University of New Orleans 

University of North Carolina, Asheville 

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 

University of North Carolina School of 

the Arts 

University of North Carolina, Wilmington 

University of North Florida 

University of Northwestern Ohio 

University of Oregon 

University of Pennsylvania 

University of Pittsburgh 

University of Portland 

University of Richmond 

University of San Diego 

University of San Francisco 

University of Scranton 

University of South Carolina 

University of South Florida, 

St. Petersburg 

University of Southern California 

University of Toronto 

University of the Pacific 

University of Washington, Seattle 

University of Waterloo 

Vanderbilt University 

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and 

State University 

Wabash Valley College 

Wake Forest University 

Warner University 

Washington College 

Washington State University 

Webber International University 

West Texas A & M University 

Western University 

Western Washington University 

Wheaton College 

William Peace University 

Wingate University 

Wright State University 

Xavier University 


By Andrea Colby, Director of Communications 

Montverde Academy launched its Pre-K3 program in 

2003, making this year’s Class of 2020 the third class to 

graduate where students could have spent their entire 

school career at MVA. Seven of our graduates have done 

just that this year – becoming graduates of the Class of 

2021. We’re proud to congratulate Peyton Boggs, Kai 

Eisenhardt, Jennifer Ghivizzani, Brianna Hiers, Matthew 

Morrison, Alia Rodriguez, and Jackson Shaban on their 

graduation and celebrate 15 years of being a part of the 

MVA family. 

When asked, “What is it about Montverde Academy that 

your family valued to keep your student here from Pre-K3 

through graduation?” the sense of community was the 

resounding response. 

“My late husband and I made the decision to put our 

children in Montverde Academy to instill in them at an 

early age the importance of community and education,” 

said Mrs. Maria Morrison. “We felt that if they had a 

strong foundation that would be carried throughout their 

adult life.” 

“Montverde Academy and the wonderful instructional staff 

played a significant role in transforming my extremely 

shy and quiet child,” said the Hiers family. “Through the 

diverse school community, safety, smaller class sizes, 

and caring teachers and staff, Brianna has become a 

confident, driven, thoughtful, goal oriented, and organized 

young woman who is fully prepared for her next chapter 

in life navigating her college education as well as 

into adulthood.” 

“MVA became our extended family since our Alia’s first 

day of Pre-K3,” said the Rodriguez family. “Character, 

Community, and Knowledge are the attributes valued and 

applied in our daughter’s daily life. Character developed 

the strong, confident young lady she became; community 

became her lifelong friends and nourishing teachers 

who allowed her to achieve academic success; and 

knowledge encompasses all the hard work, dedication 

and academic successes.” 

“Kai remained at MVA from Pre-K 3 through graduation 

because she thrived in the environment,” said Ms. 

Eisenhardt. “As parents, we were comfortable knowing 

that teachers and staff knew her as an individual. The 

community offered a safe environment and resources for 

Kai to develop and explore. Her beloved rescue horses, 

Atlas and Calypso, lived at the equestrian center on 

campus, whose close proximity allowed her time to care 

for them and grow into a compassionate, strong person.” 

“We choose MVA because of the balance of student 

support and learning environment,” said the Boggs 

family. “It is reassuring to have a sense of community 

Peyton Boggs 

Alia Rodriguez with her mother Mayra 

Kai Eisenhardt 


Brianna Hiers Matthew Morrison Jackson Shaban Jennifer Ghivizzani 

as you progress through the years. We wanted a Lower 

School program that was more academic than a day care, 

which we felt was important to learning. The opportunity 

to explore the arts, Spanish, and technology were key 

factors. It isn’t just academic learning, but social skills, 

life lessons, and resilience. These skills came in the 

form of Mr. Delmolino reminding you to greet someone 

and Ms. Shackelford addressing assembly with Lion 

King quotes or a Skippy John story. These moments left 

lasting impressions. The Upper School’s small classes, 

AP class choices, and great college advising staff offered 

a glimpse of what college looks like and prepared Peyton 

for that next step.” 

These students have achieved goals and been positively 

influenced by teachers and coaches along the way. The 

Morrison family shared: “I think that Mr. Del was the most 

influential person for Matthew in Middle School. Mr. Del 

was always encouraging and pushed Matthew to be a 

better student and person.” 

“Running as part of the cross country and track teams 

has been an important part of Brianna’s experience where 

she’s developed great friends and helped her focus on 

accomplishing goals. Being elected as Vice President of 

her student class in Middle School was also significant. 

She wanted to challenge herself and that election helped 

to do something outside her comfort zone.” 

“Peyton has always loved books and words,” said Mr. 

and Mrs. Boggs. “In Middle School, she decided to be a 

writer. Mrs. Parets always encouraged her to follow her 

dream. Ms. Tamasi and Mrs. Walsworth were supportive 

and helped her grow as a writer. Many faculty and staff 

were influential and supportive, fostering her imaginative 

attributes, inspiring her creative pursuits such as singing, 

drama and film, while others encouraged her to be herself 

and built her confidence.” 

“Everyone Alia has encountered, her teachers, advisors, 

counselors, and peers, were blessings. Throughout the 

15 years, MVA has been a second home to our family. 

It was the support from everyone Alia encountered who 

paved the way to her becoming a successful student and 

individual. She has been empowered to challenge herself 

in and outside of the classroom. Her MVA education is 

one of the foundations that will carry her throughout her 

college career.” 

“The most significant goal Kai achieved was acceptance 

to the University of Pennsylvania. Challenging 

herself with rigorous AP classes has afforded her the 

opportunity to attend and compete as an athlete in 

the Ivy League Conference. Several teachers from all 

three divisions have influenced Kai - Carmen Synovec 

and Karla Lafferty inspired her as a young learner. The 

ever positive and unique Mr. Delmolino taught her the 

importance of citizenship. Dr. Browdy challenged her 

and she relied on Mr. Lance Walsworth to look into the 

future,” said Ms. Eisenhardt. 

Our families are truly ambassadors for MVA who speak 

from their many years of experience. When asked what 

they would say to a prospective family about why they 

chose MVA, they responded with comments like: 

• Our family chose Montverde Academy because we 

wanted to be a part of a supportive environment that 

treated every student as an individual. 

• We appreciate the safety, security, and beauty of 

campus where we feel like family in this community. 

• The leadership and staff focus on the pillars of 

character, community and knowledge. 

• It is the rich, diverse community and multitude of 

activities that allows a student to explore all the 

possibilities: achievement, leadership, sportsmanship, 

and teamwork. It is the foundation for your child’s 

developmental growth and academic success. The 

possibilities are endless. 


PURSUING 

PASSION 


LUC GRANITUR 

Luc Granitur plays for the SIMA Gold team, which boasts some 

of the most talented soccer players found on high school teams 

throughout the U.S. Luc has been playing soccer for as long as he 

can remember, but it was an injury in eighth-grade that sidelined 

him – and was a turning point as he realized just how much he 

loved the sport. 

“It was sitting on the sidelines watching my team play when I 

realized that I wanted to make sure that soccer was part of my life 

all the time because I love it,” said Luc. “I now play every game like 

it’s my last, because I learned that it really could be the last game. 

I love the language of soccer, that no matter what language you 

speak, it brings people together. There are six or seven different 

languages spoken by my team members, but on the field, we all 

work together to achieve our goal. I have friends from all over the 

world and have learned about different cultures. We do a great job 

of blending together, while respecting each other’s differences.” 

His talent for soccer found him playing for the Orlando City 

Development Academy, which is where he learned about 

Montverde Academy and the SIMA program. He and his family 

agreed that it was a great opportunity for him to focus academics 

and athletics in MVA’s structured, challenging environment. “It 

was a big adjustment and even though I’m only two hours away 

from home, it’s hard to fit in family visits. My family and I have all 

made sacrifices for me to pursue soccer, but being at Montverde 

Academy has really prepared me for the next level, which I 

hope is playing soccer professionally. I am thankful for all of the 

opportunities I’ve had, for all the places that soccer has taken me 

and am looking forward to playing soccer for the University of North 

Carolina, Chapel Hill and studying sports science in the fall.” 

Favorite memory – Playing on the U.S. Senior National Team. “We 

lost 4-0, but playing against some of the best players in the country 

and being able to keep up with them, it was a highlight.” 

Motivating quote – Always give 100 percent, 100 percent of the time. 


ANTHONY MOREHEAD 

Anthony Morehead is a charismatic, upbeat young man who can 

easily break into song or vehemently discuss politics. His passion 

for theatre is apparent with his long resume of productions, but his 

passion for social justice is revealed when you embark upon a more 

meaningful discussion of life, the universe, and everything. 

“I’m interested in and love everything,” said Anthony. “The Musical 

Theatre Conservatory was a great way for me to pursue many 

different interests from acting, singing and choreography, to amateur 

blacksmithing, technical theatre aspects, and playing music – I’ve 

gotten to combine all of that in my experience at MVA. I’m also an 

activist who wants to help others by fighting for causes I believe in 

and I get to be true to myself here.” 

Anthony found MVA through summer camp and came to school here 

in sixth grade, which helped him balance his love for the theatre 

with rigorous academics. He had once easily achieved good grades 

without much effort, and now finds himself working hard in classes 

such as forensic science, philosophy and psychology, balanced 

with the demands of five large-scale productions and many smaller 

projects as well. 

“Being able to dance, act and sing while immersed in academia is 

such a great opportunity. We’ve done so many shows, I mean fullfledged 

productions that I’ve worked on every single one in some 

way, is rewarding. Through the connections Ms. Emerson has, I’ve 

also acted in a professional production of “Hello Dolly!” at the Garden 

Theatre for which I was recognized in the Orlando Sentinel as a 2020 

best featured actor. Who gets to do that in high school? I’m really 

lucky to have my parents’ full support in everything thing I do. They 

encourage me to be true to my self – activist, actor, musician – which 

makes all of the sacrifices we’ve made worth it.” 

Favorite Memory: Performing in “She Loves Me,” I had the most vivid 

theatre moment of all time before running into the theatre I was alone 

in the lobby listening to the audience laughing in the right places 

and hearing my friends perform – it was a moment to reflect on how 

much I love the friendships I’ve made and the experiences I’ve been 

a part of here at MVA. 

Motivating quote: Finishing the Hat – this song is from “Sunday in the 

Park with George,” and it reminds me sometimes art is a sacrifice, 

but you’re not wrong if you’re doing what you love. 


GIULLIANA PEREZ 

Giulliana Perez is an outgoing and extremely helpful young lady who is always willing to jump in and help others. She 

recalls being shy and quiet when she began at Montverde Academy in fifth grade. However, she made up her mind 

to change that and joined Builder’s Club to get out of her comfort zone by getting involved in a club activity. Following 

her mother’s example of helping others and giving thanks, Giulliana found a home in Builder’s Club and progressed on 

to Key Club in Upper School, where she continued building her leadership skills and has gone on to serve as MVA’s 

Key Club President for two years, the volunteer chair of the Arts and Athletics Leadership Council (AALC), and leading 

volunteer activities to help others throughout our community. 

Giulliana also spends her time in the pool as co-captain with Alexa Cecchi of this year's swim team. She is a District 

Champion, Regional Runner-Up, and a State Meet competitor in the 500m freestyle event. As a relay swimmer she 

competes in both the 200m medley and 200m freestyle relays and is a valued member of the team. 

Even in this challenging time of COVID-19, Key Club fundraisers have raised $3,000 this year for the Greater Cancer 

Foundation. That donation helped three local families who are affected by cancer. “My Mom has always made sure we 

participate in community service,” said Giulliana. “I’m grateful for that as it’s given me exposure to and appreciation of 

the value volunteering has. For example, when I volunteered in a homeless shelter, I saw families who were celebrating 

the positive when surrounded by challenging circumstances – that inspires me. I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve 

had, so being able to give to others in a meaningful way is something I’ve become passionate about.” 

Her passion for helping others has sparked an interest in sociology, 

public policy and criminal justice, which she will pursue in 

college with long-term plans to go to law school. She is 

thinking about international law and would like to work for 

the United Nations representing the underprivileged. She 

spent her summer volunteering, often with the Second 

Harvest Food Bank and other local non-profits. 

“Montverde Academy has prepared me for the 

next phase of my life and these walls will always 

be ‘home’ for me. I’ve loved being a part of a 

community who has helped me become the 

person I am today. My parents left Venezuela to 

make a better life here and I’m grateful for their 

constant support. But now, I’m ready to spread 

my wings and fly.” 

Favorite memory: Being selected for Head 

of School’s Leadership Institute “One of my 

proudest moments was being selected for the 

HLI. I remember Dr. Kesselring reminding me to 

breathe because I was 

so nervous.” 

Motivating quote: Just when the caterpillar thought the 

world was over, it became a butterfly. 


CALEB SHEYDA 

Caleb Sheyda is a driven student-athlete who seeks out challenges. As a 

sophomore transfer from Apopka, Caleb was ready to challenge himself 

academically and athletically, playing lacrosse for Coach Brooks Sweet, whom 

he had been coached by as a freshman. The move has resulted in continued 

excellence in the classroom and on the field. He was selected to participate 

in the 2020 Boys State and the U.S. Military Academy Summer Leaders 

Experience, was a member of the Eagle Ambassadors in the Head of School’s 

Leadership Institute, Entrepreneurship Club, and Youth Group at First Baptist 

Sweetwater, and a volunteer for the Special Olympics. 

“At Montverde Academy, everyone is focused on academics as well as 

athletics, so I began to really apply myself,” said Caleb. “I pushed myself in the 

classroom and on the field. If I give 100 percent effort it reflects well and brings 

up the team or those around me. If you’re dedicated to learning and giving your 

best, then the outcome on everything around you is positive.” 

That focus has definitely worked for Caleb, who will attend 

the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis in Maryland to pursue 

aerospace engineering. He also earned appointment into the 

U.S. Military Academy at West Point and was accepted into 

Auburn University on a full scholarship. He turned it 

all down to pursue becoming a fighter pilot with the 

ultimate goal of being selected for the Navy’s esteemed 

TOPGUN program. 

“I want to be the best in everything that I do. Whether 

it’s doing well in the toughest class or competing at 

the very highest level in lacrosse, I want to achieve 

excellence. I chose the military because I want to 

serve and protect my country and give back, as I’m 

grateful for the opportunities that God has given me. It 

has been a great experience at MVA for me. I’m glad to 

have built friendships with people from all over the world, 

and feel that all of the experiences here have prepared me 

for the next steps I’ll take on to Annapolis.” 

Motivating Quote: “I will give that to You, O Lord my God, 

with all my heart, And will glorify Your name forever.” – 

Psalm 86:12. This keeps me on track through all the 

tough times, the ups and downs – I always remember 

that God has a plan. 


RYAN NEMBHARD 

Ryan Nembhard is a quick, explosive point guard 

for our MVA Eagles varsity basketball team. 

Originally from Canada, he had a basketball in his 

hands at three years old and hasn’t put it down 

since. In his early basketball days, his father 

was his coach and Andrew, his brother and MVA 

alumnus, was a tough competitor – so he was 

immersed in the sport from a very early age. His 

family learned about Montverde Academy from a 

fellow Canadian and basketball player, and even 

though it was challenging to be so far away from 

home, he chose to pursue a dream of playing elite 

basketball at MVA. 

“It was a tough decision to leave the comfort of home 

and family, but I got used to it very quickly,” said Ryan. “I 

knew coming here would prepare me for what I had to do. I learned to 

be responsible for myself. You know your mom isn’t here to do your laundry 

or tell you to study, so the discipline and structure along with teachers and 

coaches who care about you has been the best situation for me to become a 

better student and athlete. Training with Coach Boyle and playing with great 

athletes made me raise my game – you learn very quickly that you have to 

put in the time and work to succeed.” 

This year was Ryan’s year to step up his leadership as the point guard. His 

energy level seems to set the tone for the team, and he hasn’t disappointed 

on the court amidst tough competitors and the challenges that COVID-19 

has presented. He committed to play Division I basketball for Creighton 

University in Omaha, Nebraska and hopes to be a part of March Madness. 

“I’ve had the opportunity to represent my country on Team Canada, and I 

have gotten to travel to Brazil and Hawaii through playing a game I love. 

I have great memories that are attached to basketball. Living in the dorm 

has been a lot of fun, I like to have fun and joke with people. If you’re 

having fun, I feel like everything will take care of itself. When you spend 

that much time with people – living together and playing on the same 

team, you become close and know how to come together on and off the 

court, which contributes to the success our teams have had.” 

Favorite memory – Going 25-0 last year was really memorable for me. 

Our team put in the work and the time to make sure we were going to 

succeed when it counted. 

Motivating quote – Lock in on Defense and Trust the Process. That 

keeps me focused, I know I’ve done the work and I trust my coaches – it 

assures me that it will be my time and all the work has prepared me for 

that moment. 


WESTON BAPTISTE 

Weston Baptiste started at Montverde Academy in 

the third grade and has seen the campus transform 

through the years. A Florida native, one of the things 

he appreciates about MVA is the fact that he has the 

opportunity to interact and become friends with people 

from all over the world. He has a quiet manner, but on the 

track, he is a fierce competitor who methodically achieves 

his goals and leaves competitors in his dust. 

“Growing up, I played every sport – basketball, baseball, 

soccer, but I was always fascinated by speed – the Flash 

was my favorite superhero and the cheetah is my favorite 

animal,” said Weston. “When I started really developing 

my love for running, my parents dove in to learn 

everything they could about the sport to become experts. 

My mom and dad have done everything to support me in 

whatever way possible so I’m very thankful to have their 

support and respect them for making sacrifices for me.” 

Weston runs the 100-, 200- and 400-meter races as well 

as the sprint relays. He has achieved great success, 

handily beating the seventh-ranked runner in Florida at a 

meet in March. As a sophomore, he placed third at State 

competition and had hoped to win a gold as a junior, but 

in the wake of COVID-19, has reset his sights to earn 

gold as a senior. He strives for excellence in what he 

does, but is focused on always being a student before 

being an athlete. 

“I’m not going to stop until I achieve my goals. I can 

only get to a certain place with sports and Montverde 

Academy has helped me find the balance of pursuing 

academics and training in athletics. Coach Gerald Phiri 

is very experienced in the sport. With his coaching and 

advice, I’ve been able to continue improving. I’m going to 

push my career forward through academics, but having 

the sport has helped me get to the school that will make it 

all happen. I’m going to Georgia Tech to study biology on 

a pre-med track. I want to be an orthodontist like my dad.” 

Weston concluded his senior year with a State 

Championship win in the 400m, a win at Regionals in 

the 400m, and wins at Districts in the 100m, 200m, and 

400m. “I’m itching to graduate. I’m ready for the next 

step, excited to go to Georgia Tech and I won’t stop until 

I achieve my goals. I’m eager to see what kind of person 

I’ll become,” said Weston. 

Motivating quote: Hard work beats talent when talent fails 

to work hard. People can only get under your skin if you 

give them consent. That reminds me to stay focused on 

what’s important because you’re the only one who’s got 

the key to getting what you want. 


MARIA TREGANSIN 

Maria Tregansin is a smart, dedicated student who balances challenging academics (she’s taking AP physics, AP 

calculus and AP chemistry) with her passion for the sport of soccer. Motivated with a serious work ethic and focused 

drive, she has been one of the most consistent players on the pitch for the MVA Eagles girls varsity soccer team, 

which led the University of Central Florida to recruit her to play at the collegiate level. 

Maria recalls always playing soccer, but becoming more focused on the sport and 

excelling in Middle School. She came to Montverde Academy as a freshman, 

following Daniel, her brother who played for SIMA and graduated in 2019, and 

immediately talked to Coach Robbie Aristodemo to become part of the MVA girls 

soccer team. 

“I don’t think I could have found the balance of academics and athletics at any 

other school,” said Maria. “I’ve had great teachers and coaches at MVA, who 

care a lot about how you’re doing. Because of the attention of teachers 

like Dr. Browdy and Ms. Deluca, and Coach Robbie that I’ve been able 

to do well academically and athletically. Coach is a character who’s 

helped me grow with his straight-forward advice on what I am doing 

well and what I am not doing well. I know he believes in me and our 

team, which has helped us be very successful. He’s pushed me to find 

the strength I didn’t know I had. I also really appreciate my teammates! 

They are a family that’s a bit different every year, but these friendships 

will carry on long after school is done.” 

Throughout her high school soccer career, the team has earned two 

State Championship titles with an overall record of 65 wins and only 

one loss since 2017. That loss occurred in her freshman year when 

the team fell to the No. 1 team in the nation. It is an impressive record 

that has been challenged lately by COVID-19 and an injury that has 

sidelined Maria. 

“This injury has given me a new appreciation for the mobility and 

the success I had during the past four years. I haven’t been injured 

before, so my attention has had changed and I’ve had to think about 

not playing the sport. I still have same desire and passion to play, but I 

now realize that things can be temporary and there’s more to life than 

just soccer. I appreciate the support of my family. In the past, I’ve been 

very independent, and now, I realize how hard my parents work and 

how they are changing their lives to support me. The love from your 

family is like no other. I haven’t taken a second to think much about that 

because I’ve been so focused, so I really appreciate them,” said Maria. 

Favorite memory: Playing in WIST my sophomore year, there was a 

big crowd and the team clicked really well. It was really fun to play for 

the audience and win our tournament – there were college coaches 

watching and there was pressure, but we were all doing so well it 

was exciting. 

Motivating quote: Trust the process. I think everything happens for a 

reason, so be patient, keep working, trust the process, and you will 

eventually get to where you want to go. 


UPPER SCHOOL 

Teacher of the Year 

Mr. Lance Walsworth 

By Robert Burke, Upper School History Teacher 

Dr. Kesselring, Lance Walsworth, David Bernatavitz 

“I would like to thank Mr. Walsworth…” 

These words of gratitude have been expressed in 

speeches by numerous class presidents, graduating 

seniors, salutatorians, and valedictorians throughout the 

last 29 years of Lance Walsworth’s career as a teacher. 

Mr. Walsworth’s calling as an educator has taken him 

on a journey involving almost every content area offered 

in Upper School Social Studies. From U.S. History to 

Advanced Placement (AP) Micro and Macroeconomics, 

Mr. Walsworth has delivered effective instruction to 

countless local and international students. 

I first met Mr. Walsworth around 15 years ago. While 

in college, I was a substitute teacher working at East 

Ridge High, where he was the Social Studies Chair. 

The department’s workroom buzzed with conversations 

ranging from content to best teaching practices. As a 

developing educator, I found the environment of Mr. 

Walsworth’s department to be invaluable. His care 

and respect for his colleagues were only surpassed 

by the dedication to his students as I learned by being 

his substitute teacher on occasion. Five years into my 

career, I came to Montverde Academy. On the day of my 

interview, Mr. Walsworth was also on campus interviewing. 

Knowing I would be a colleague of Lance and Kristine 

Walsworth convinced me I had made the right decision in 

coming to Montverde Academy. 

Mr. Walsworth is now entering his eighth year at MVA. In 

that time, he has developed consistently high-performing 

AP Economics courses. Additionally, he created a tiered 

entrepreneurship program, which includes advanced 

business concepts, the placement of interns, and regular 

visits from successful local entrepreneurs. The energy of 

his classrooms connects with the students and empowers 

them to be successful. 

“Being a student of Mr. Walsworth is knowing there will 

always be someone in your corner and on your team, 

constantly looking out for your best interests as a student 

and most importantly as an equal” MVA student Shafer 

Bergman ’22 said. 

Among his colleagues, Mr. Walsworth is a trusted 

professional and friend. Amidst the uncertainties entering 

the 2020-21 academic year, the teachers of the Upper 

School knew his door was always open to us. He is 

always ready to lend his advice, support, or a listening 

ear whenever needed. Speaking for myself, I have 

approached him on numerous occasions for counsel on 

various subject matters. He demonstrates a gifted ability 

in helping a person understand the options in front of 

them without telling them what to do. To this end, I am 

particularly grateful. 

The scope of Lance Walsworth’s impact is visible in 

teacher Ms. Nicole DeLuca’s experience; “Mr. Walsworth 

was my teacher and volleyball coach. He is the reason I 

teach history today. Sitting in his World History class and 

watching his passion for the subject was all I needed to 

know ‘one day, I want to do as he does.’ Working with him 

now as a colleague has been a dream come true and he 

still teaches and inspires me every day.” 

On behalf of the Montverde Academy Upper School 

teachers, we congratulate Mr. Lance Walsworth as the 

2020-21 Teacher of the Year. Lance, for your continued 

dedication to students and leadership among peers, we 

sincerely thank you. 


Employee 

Spotlight: 

Special Jennings 


Special Jennings joined the Montverde 

Academy team in August 2020 with plans 

for a productive season with the Varsity 

Girls Basketball team. Special has been 

playing basketball all of her life and has 

built a career around a sport she loves. 


“I played all kinds of sports as a kid, everyone was at 

the park from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. growing up,” said Coach 

Jennings. “I was about 13 years old when I realized that I 

was good at it, and if I focused on it, it could be a vehicle 

to change my life. Through the sport, I was able to earn 

an education and enjoyed playing in every game, 115 

consecutively, at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio.” 

At Xavier, she led the Musketeers to four Atlantic 10 

Conference Tournament titles, four NCAA Tournaments, 

an “Elite Eight” appearance, and three regular season 

titles. She then played professional basketball in Europe 

and enjoyed living in Germany and Helsinki, Finland. 

Her passion for the sport led her to pursue coaching for 

women’s basketball programs at Wright State University, 

Augusta University, Flagler College, and the University of 

Illinois at Chicago before landing here at MVA. 

“I enjoyed all of my experiences, which led me here to 

do my own thing. I was excited to come here and do 

something that has not been done on the girls’ side, and 

that’s to win a national championship. I get to be a leader 

and role model for young ladies, helping them find their 

path to accomplish whatever it is that they want do. I want 

to be a vessel to impact and broaden their lives,” said 

Coach Jennings. 

The team had a great season, making it all the way to 

hold the No. 1 spot on MaxPreps’ national team rankings 

for a number of weeks. They experienced only two losses 

in the season, to Lake Highland Preparatory and Emerge 

Christian Academy, for an overall record of 22-2. Coach 

Jennings is proud of their season and already preparing 

for next year. 

“The girls did a phenomenal job adapting to me and my 

coaching style. Coaching changes are always challenging, 

especially for teenagers. They understood my vision 

and know that my goal is to help us win a national 

championship. I want to make a name for the girls’ 

basketball team and compete at the highest level – when 

you hear top national teams, MVA is mentioned for the girls 

program as well as the boys. I’m different than the other 

coaches and the players have adjusted to my demeanor. 

We’ve been able to set some records and were ranked 

in the top ten nationally this year. I think that growing our 

brand name, building a few more teams and getting us to a 

national championship is attainable with time.” 

What excites you about being a Basketball Coach 

here at MVA? 

“The challenge of doing something that has yet to be done 

on the girls’ side. I draw on advice and conversations I’ve 

had with my mentors such as Carla Morrow of Ohio State, 

and Erika Lang-Montgomery of University of Florida. I’ve 

had genuine, hard conversations as part of my journey. 

They understood my vision and goals and encouraged 

me to do things my way, and not try to follow someone 

else’s steps. I have learned that you have to figure out 

what your journey is and how you want to navigate it. Our 

boys’ basketball program has been amongst the top in 

the nation for years and I look to get our girls’ program to 

that same stature. Coach Kevin Boyle and I have a great 

relationship and we support one another’s program. We 

are not in competition with each other as the goal is for 

all of us to be successful. My hope for the future is that 

when you hear about MVA basketball playing for a Geico 

National Championship, you automatically say it is MVA 

boys and girls basketball.” 

What are you most proud of accomplishing in your 

first year? 

“In my first season here at MVA I am most proud of my 

players. They came in day in and day out and gave me 

110 percent effort on the court. These young ladies bought 

into the vision I set for the program, they gave up the “I” 

for an “us” and were very selfless. This is what made us 

successful. When you realize that the goal is bigger than 

yourself, you step out of your own way and allow yourself 

to learn and grow. I couldn’t ask for a better group of 

young ladies to start my journey off with.” 

Beyond work, what brings you joy? 

I am engaged to be married to Amber, my beautiful fiancé, 

on August 7, which is exciting. I enjoy spending quality 

time with her. We are looking forward to our wedding; it is 

going to be a big one in Cleveland with a huge wedding 

party of 24 people! 

I am from a large, blended family and love all my siblings 

to pieces. I find joy in getting to be an auntie to my nieces 

and nephews. Watching them grow up and being able to 

provide them with experiences that my siblings and I did 

not have as a kid is satisfying. 

What’s the mantra that keeps you on track? 

Say what I mean, mean what I say. I came in open 

minded, the Academy sells itself with the level of 

academics, college acceptance, etc. and my goal is to 

continue in the MVA tradition of achieving excellence. 

What’s your favorite quote? 

It’s not really a quote but a saying, “It can always be 

worse.” My bad days are someone’s nightmares. I’m 

fortunate – I wake up with everything I need, and I never 

take things for granted. 

What’s your kryptonite? 

Candy – I can’t refuse candy. I have it everywhere, in 

drawers, pockets, everywhere. Sour Patch Kids, Twizzlers, 

Heath Bars – you name it, I just love candy. 

We wish Coach Jennings and the girls basketball program 

continued success. 


24 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2021 

Francisco Lindor ʼ11

FRANCISCO LINDOR 

PAYS IT FORWARD 


He has the nickname of Mr. Smiles in his professional life as an All-Star baseball 

shortshop and superstar for the New York Mets of Major League Baseball. That easy 

smile is a hallmark of Francisco Lindor (’11) who calls Montverde Academy a second 

home as he often returns to campus to cheer on the baseball team and catch up with 

his family. 

Earlier this year, Francisco further demonstrated his 

dedication to MVA by making a $1 million donation to 

MVA’s Time to Lead Campaign for the construction of 

a new, state-of-the-art Middle School building. Lindor 

Hall, named to honor his gift, is an exciting addition to 

the MVA campus. He also established the Francisco 

Lindor Scholarship Fund to provide selected current and 

prospective students financial assistance to help offset the 

cost of tuition. 

“Montverde Academy played an important role in my life 

and is a special place for me,” said Lindor. “By leaving 

Puerto Rico and coming to the Academy, I definitely 

grew up and became a man through my experience 

here. The education I received and the confidence, work 

ethic, and character I developed and strengthened as a 

student, helped shape me. I’m thankful for the blessings 

the Lord has bestowed on my family and me. I’m grateful 

to have the opportunity to pay it forward. I know Middle 

School students and teachers will benefit from this new 

building, and hope this gift helps provide the same strong 

foundation for future students that it gave me.” 

“In much the same way today, Francisco’s smile and 

inviting personality have always been memorable,” said 

Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring, Head of School. “By nature, he is 

a committed and loyal person. Given his talent at a young 

age, he had numerous opportunities to go elsewhere 

to pursue his passion for baseball, but he remained 

committed to Montverde Academy and was always 

grateful for the opportunity he had to earn his education 

here. He began paying it forward shortly after being 

drafted with a pledge commitment to name the baseball 

field, Lindor Field. As his career advanced, Francisco and 

I had a number of conversations regarding his interest in 

doing something to support students and the academic 

community. When the new Middle School project came 

online, it was an immediate interest for him, but he 

also wanted to expand on that to provide scholarship 

opportunities for families with demonstrated need to 

support their children’s education at MVA. Francisco has 

“stepped up to the plate” in a transformational way and his 

contributions are of seismic importance to MVA.” 

The second youngest of five siblings, Francisco arrived 

at MVA as a 12-year-old boarding student from Caguas, 

Puerto Rico speaking very little English. He used to write 

“I don’t understand English” on his hand to show teachers 

and students as a way to communicate. In his second 

year, his father, stepmother and youngest sibling moved to 

Clermont so he became a day student, enjoying a typical 

high school experience for a student-athlete at MVA. 

“My first year at MVA was challenging and very interesting. 

The language made it challenging as I didn’t speak 

English well and all of the classes were in English. I went 

to school in the middle of nowhere, it was surrounded by 

lots of pine and orange trees. I was meeting new people 

from all over the world and there’s a language barrier that 

forces you to find a way to communicate. All the faculty 

Francisco Lindor ʼ11 


The education I received and 

the confidence, work ethic 

and character I developed and 

strengthened as a student, 

helped shape me...(I) hope this 

gift helps provide the same 

strong foundation for future 

students that it gave me. 

Francisco Lindor ʼ11 

members helped me so much to embrace the community 

and environment of the school to become a gentleman, 

ready for high school preparing for the real world. Being 

able to learn the language here was very good – it worked 

out well. For the longest time it was my home, it definitely 

helped me become the man I am today,” said Francisco. 

“I remember him at that age – a lanky student, maybe 80 

pounds soaking wet, who was always smiling,” said Mr. 

Andrew Parks, who was Dean of the Middle School when 

Francisco arrived at MVA. “Francisco worked very hard 

learning English and in all of his classes. The separation 

from his family was a struggle as they are a lovely and 

close-knit family. His dad, Miguel, is one of the kindest 

people you’ll ever meet. As the baseball coach at the 

time, we had a sense that Francisco had the talent and 

drive to be something special. He would be out practicing 

in the heat of a Florida summer, doing sprints, batting, 

fielding – he was always the hardest worker and a standout 

that scouts noticed even when he was a freshman 

and sophomore.” 

“Francisco took some convincing to focus on learning 

English, but once he realized the value the language 

had toward reaching his goal, he put the time and effort 

in,” said Ms. Jeanette Nevrdeen, who was his English as 

Second Language (ESL) teacher. “He struggled a bit in 

those first months with the culture shock, being away from 

home and not knowing English, it wasn’t easy, but as he 

saw his friends progressing, he had to look deeper to find 

his inner drive. Once he found that motivation, he began 

to thrive, gaining skills and developing a balance between 

the academics and athletics. It’s great to see him give 

back to our students and MVA to make the world better.” 

Lindor Hall 

MVA attracted other members of Francisco’s family. Mrs. 

Legna Lindor Lebron, his sister, has been a part of the 

MVA family since 2012, when she began working in MVA’s 

After Care program. She has held a number of positions 

and is now the Middle School Spanish teacher. Her three 

children attend MVA, with Edian, her oldest son, a senior 

in the Class of 2021 and a baseball player, like his uncle. 

“The Academy has been an answer to many of our 

family’s prayers,” said Mrs. Lindor Lebron. “I had seen the 

impact that MVA had on my brother. I remember our first 

visit was for Francisco’s graduation and we were in shock 

when we saw the campus. He had worked so hard to earn 

what he had – and we don’t take it for granted. God is very 

important to our family and we have a responsibility to 

give back. The Lord provided MVA as a way for Francisco 

to achieve his dream and that connection is very important 

to our family.” 

“Making the decision to go away was really hard for 

Francisco. He was homesick, the academic expectations 

were tough and the language was hard because there 

were not many Spanish speaking students at that time. 

We kept reassuring him, telling him to keep going, don’t 

give up and hold on to your dreams. Your struggles will 

help you be an example for those who follow – and now 

he’s able to give back and through the scholarships, help 

others the way that MVA helped him,” she said. 

His language skills improved and he adapted to the rules 

and rigor of life at MVA while also continuing to improve 

on the baseball field. Mr. Warren Delmolino, who retired 


after 30 years of service at MVA, recalls living across 

from the baseball field and seeing Francisco out there 

working. He was always the last one at the field or one 

of four who showed up for morning voluntary workout 

sessions in the Roberts Gym weight room, according to 

Mr. Steve Hand, fourth-grade teacher and former MVA 

assistant baseball coach. 

“It would be Francisco and Noel Cuevas ’11 who’d show 

up,” said Mr. Hand. “He was a wiry freshman who maybe 

didn’t stand out in a lineup, but then he’d rise above the 

highest level of competition on the field that scouts would 

notice. Francisco always had above-average fielding 

skills and could shift into an extra gear to execute plays 

that shouldn’t be made at the high school level. He was 

a leader and well-liked by his teammates. He loves 

competition and will beat anyone out there by a step or 

three – he wouldn’t embarrass you as he’s humble, but 

he’s not going to lose! I’ve seen him play professionally 

and he continues to be as gracious and kind as he was 

as a student. It’s fulfilling to see a student-athlete you’ve 

coached achieve a dream.” 

“I definitely grew up and became a man at MVA – at 

a young age as a boarding student there, I had to be 

accountable for myself,” said Francisco. “There were 

rules I had to go by. Basic things like wearing the uniform, 

having the right shoes on or being clean shaven, there 

were rules here that were different from being at home 

in Puerto Rico – you’d get hours for breaking the rules. I 

remember Mrs. Parks in study hall, who had protected me 

at MVA, gave me a warning, then gave me hours when 

I broke a rule and that made me mad! I didn’t talk to her 

for a couple of days I was so mad. Looking back now, it 

was part of the discipline and structure that you learn as 

a student which helps you as an adult in a career. That 

process helped me in a sense where the mistakes like 

not following the rules turned into hours, which for me as 

a kid was hard – but in life it can be a much harder thing. 

You tell the truth – so if I did something, even though I was 

going to get in trouble or lose something, I have to tell the 

truth and take responsibility for my actions and own my 

mistake, no matter the consequence. It prepared me for 

the real world, to be a man where you are accountable.” 

Throughout his high school career, scouts asked about 

him. His ability to switch hit and outstanding fielding 

ability led him to an opportunity to participate in the 

USA Baseball’s National team representing Montverde 

Academy and Puerto Rico. “Playing for the USA team 

was an honor and a privilege, to represent my country 

and have so much pride in the name that was on the front 

of my jersey – it was huge. I had that presence of mind 

where I’m not just representing myself and my family, I’m 

representing something bigger than myself, that helped 

me stay focused on the task.” 

In his senior year, the scouts came out in droves. For one 

particular game against the Arlington Country Day School, 

nearly 100 scouts came out to see Francisco and Javier 

Báez, also from Puerto Rico and MLB Chicago Cubs 

shortstop, compete. “Having all the scouts here during my 

senior year, it was an eye-opener. You quickly learn how 

to deal with pressure and adversity because I was at the 


highest stage of the moment with so many scouts looking 

at me to invest in my future – so you have to do things the 

right way. If things didn’t go my way, I had to bounce back, 

continue to look forward and stay focused on the task to 

impress those scouts who were going to affect my future. I 

couldn’t pout and throw in the flag to give up, I believe you 

have to continue rising to the occasion,” said Francisco. 

He earned a full-ride scholarship from Florida State 

University to play on the Seminoles baseball team 

and was the eighth draft pick in the first round by the 

Cleveland Indians in the 2011 MLB Draft. He signed with 

the Indians, spent four years playing for a number of 

teams in the Minor League, making to the active roster on 

June 14, 2015. He earned the American League Rookie of 

the Month Award for September and placed second for the 

AL Rookie of the Year Award. 

That following year, Francisco had a fantastic season with 

his first trip to the MLB World Series, which ended in a 

heart-breaking 7-8 loss to the Chicago Cubs. He finished 

the 2016 season with a .301 batting average, 15 home 

runs, 78 RBIs, 19 stolen bases, 15 sacrifice flies (leading 

the majors), and 30 doubles in 158 games for the Indians. 

He earned Gold Glove and Platinum Glove Awards, broke 

records and earned the This Year in Baseball Award for 

Best Defensive Player. 

Amidst the baseball season, Legna was diagnosed with 

cancer. “We’re a very close family and I wanted to tell 

him, but was so torn because I didn’t want him to worry 

about me. We love him no matter what and we keep him 

humble – he still needs to do his dishes! So when I did tell 

him, I said, ‘You keep fighting on the field and I will keep 

fighting here to recover. The Lord is testing us and our 

Francisco Lindor has made an 

indelible mark on Montverde 

Academy. He was special on 

the baseball field and in our 

community, with a tremendous 

work ethic, an infectious smile 

and grace towards others 

that we see continuing in his 

professional life. His donation 

sends a strong message to 

everyone that academics will 

always come first. 


faith, and I know everything will be ok.’ I got news of being 

cancer-free the same day as Game Seven of the World 

Series, which made the day bittersweet. We were on the 

phone together when I rang the bell at the hospital with 

the cancer-free news.” 

Francisco and Katia, his fiancé, have a home near the 

Academy and have welcomed a daughter, Kalina, to 

their family. The commitment to family and giving back is 

always a driving force in his life, which led him to make 

Students in the new science lab in Lindor Hall 


Francisco at MVA 

Francisco with the Mets 

a significant gift to MVA and continue mentoring studentathletes 

on the Eagles baseball team. 

“The connection I have with the students is great. The 

Scholarship Fund is a great way for me to mentor them 

and help them with support for tuition. I hope to be a 

mentor for students, to see me as a friend and resource 

that can help them with anything, not just at MVA but when 

they get older, that they can call or text me to get in touch 

to seek advice, that brotherly advice. MVA has been great 

for me and my family. To give and give back to the school 

and to the students and help them and serve as a mentor 

for them, it’s very special,” said Francisco. 

In 2018, MVA Eagles baseball was on its way to an 

undefeated season when Francisco took his mentoring 

seriously. “I was looking to motivate the team. I wanted 

to push them, to let them know that I was right there with 

them and they were not alone,” he said. He made a bet 

with the team that if they went undefeated, he would 

let them cut, well shave, his hair. It worked like a charm 

and the team went on to 25-0 season. And Francisco 

graciously showed up at a school assembly, clippers in 

hand, to settle the bet with the teenagers. 

“I was hoping they would give me a one cut not a zero cut 

because I have to look good, I’m a professional athlete, I 

can’t be looking crazy. But they’re kids so they took off the 

one and gave me a zero. It’s only hair, so I was like ‘Ok 

guys!’ It was quite a moment. They did a great job when 

presented with that reward, I knew they would achieve it.” 

Francisco shared this advice with MVA students: “Always 

believe in yourself. Life is a process and each day is a 

day closer to reaching your goals. Look back to reflect on 

things you have done and to make sure that you move 

forward with your goals. Trust in yourself, trust in the 

faculty and staff here, they work every day to help and 

motivate you to work hard and make you a better person 

and a better student so you can prepare yourself for the 

real world.” 

“Francisco Lindor has made an indelible mark on 

Montverde Academy. He was special on the baseball 

field and in our community, with a tremendous work 

ethic, an infectious smile and grace towards others that 

we see continuing in his professional life. His donation 

sends a strong message to everyone that academics 

will always come first. Education is lifelong, and a sports 

career has an expiration date. This gift from Francisco is 

not surprising because he has always been selfless and 

humble. He sees the value of what the Academy instilled 

in him and is generously giving for a lasting impact on 

others,” said Dr. Kesselring. 


Kindergarten Graduation 

1 2 3 

6 

4 

5 

1. Kindergarten Performance 

2. Annabel Wojnowski 

3. Mrs. Shirley and Eleanor Vidal 

8 

4. Indigo Napoles, Luca Potempa and Priscilla 

Quindemil 

5. Mrs. Sinopoli and Christian Darrabie 

6. Aaleyah Mitchell and Sydney Carter 

7. Harry Anderson, Matteo Burgos-Valentin, 

Kaylee Burke 

8. Aaleyah Mitchell 

9. Luca Potempa 

7 

9 


5th grade Graduation 

3 

1 2 

4 

5 6 7 

1. Mrs. Dougherty and Lilia Becker 

2. Dr. Kesselring, Edielys Negron, Ms. Shackelford 

3. Mrs. Dougherty and Aedan Rock-Rodriquez 

4. Salvatore Scelfo 

5. Mrs. Meder and Roman Kelly 

6. Mrs. Meder and Jordan Jackson 

7. Ian Negron and Brianna Ramski 

8. Fifth Grade Performance 

8 


LOWER SCHOOL 


Saliesha Meder 

By Lauren Dougherty, Lower School Teacher 

Saliesha Meder with her family 

You never know when a door will open that will change 

your life. For me, it was on a tour with Mrs. Jayne 

Beucher, Associate Dean of the Lower School, when I 

was interviewing for a position to be a fifth-grade teacher 

at the Lower School. It was during the tour that the door 

opened. Mrs. Saliesha Meder, Lower School Teacher of 

the Year, popped out of a math workshop to introduce 

herself and have a word. Standing in front of me was this 

amazing woman radiating such a passion for education 

and who shared a viewpoint so similar to mine that I 

secretly hoped she’d be the next person with whom I 

would have the privilege to teach with, learn from, and 

grow alongside. Mrs. Beucher literally had to pry us apart 

to continue the tour. 

When the school year started, I quickly learned that 

working with children is in Mrs. Meder’s blood. Watching 

her exceptional ability to connect with students is a 

lesson in celebrating unique characteristics and going 

the distance to give those outliers the recognition of how 

valued each and every learner is in her classroom. She 

is fun, and yet creates mutual respect not only between 

herself and her students, but on a peer-to-peer level, 

as well. She enjoys sharing her love and expertise in 

science, complimenting Mrs. Whiffen’s lessons in her 

own classroom. Additionally, she makes American history 

come alive using historical fiction with novels such as 

Blood on the River and Tolivier’s Secret. 

and daughter Jenna’s MVA Eagles’ softball games. In 

addition, you might recognize her at one of Jenna’s travel 

team games as the one blasting music for the Vipers with 

each player having their own song when they are up at 

bat. Her husband Sean rounds out this family of purple 

and gold. 

Saliesha always puts in 110 percent, but over the past 

two years, she did a bit more. Earning her Master 

of Education degree in Feb. 2019, she took on the 

challenge of completing the Master Teacher Program 

which has been established to recognize teachers who 

display the qualities and characteristics of exemplary 

educators. It’s no surprise she was awarded the title 

Master Teacher. 

It is an honor to work with this exceptional teacher, 

team member, role model and friend. It’s no wonder 

her colleagues voted her Teacher of the Year. Not only 

did she open a door and share her heart for education 

with me when we met, she opens her classroom 

and her passion to her students every single day. 

Congratulations, Mrs. Saliesha Meder, 2021 MVA Lower 

School Teacher of the Year. 

A Florida native, Saliesha is a graduate of University 

of Central Florida and began teaching at Windermere 

Elementary followed by Lake Whitney Elementary. 

Joining Montverde Academy’s Lower School in 2015, 

she is an MVA Eagle to the core. With two children 

attending MVA, she has been a regular sight at robotics 

competitions for her son Trevor, a 2021 MVA graduate 


Lindor Hall Ribbon Cutting 

DEVELOPMENT UPDATE 

By Mary-Kay Rath, Executive Director of the Arts Alliance 

It’s official - the doors to Lindor Hall have opened to our 

Middle School students. The two-story, 42,995 squarefoot 

Middle School houses 16 classrooms, three science 

labs, a study hall, commons room, performance stage, 

gymnasium, and more! 

Giving is not just about 

making a donation. It’s about 

making a difference. 

Kathy Calvin 

Middle School students have unique needs. Lindor 

Hall provides an environment that sparks curiosity and 

creativity while equipping students with access to tools and resources to confidently become active participants in 

their Middle School community. Lindor Hall also meets the needs of the entire Montverde Academy community – from 

Pre-K3 - 12 grade. As MVA has grown in all divisions, sharing facility space is necessary to ensure appropriate activity 

space to accommodate all the extra-curricular programming offered. The completion of Lindor Hall has ensured 

that everyone has dedicated facility space. Middle School performers now have their own stage for rehearsals 

and performances and Middle School athletes now have their own courts for Volleyball and Basketball practices 

and games. This new facility reduces the load on our other existing facilities and frees up space allowing for more 

opportunities across the board for everyone! 

Four years after launching our Time to Lead Campaign, we have raised $3.3 million, 55 percent, of our $6 million goal. 

Combined contributions and pledges, including a $1 million gift from Francisco Lindor ’11, and donations from MVA 

families, alumni, staff, Trustees, and friends of the Academy continue to contribute to this effort, including our most 

recent gifts from the 2020-21 Arts Alliance and Athletic Booster Club. 

This is your chance to partner in our future leaders’ success by giving to our Time to Lead campaign. Naming 

opportunities are available to acknowledge the generous investment made by donors and their commitment to 

the success of all MVA students. Visit montverde.org/support-mva-time-to-lead/ to donate today or contact the 

Development Office for more information. 

Remaining Naming Opportunities 

Middle School Gymnasium - $500,000 

Gymnasium Scoreboard - $50,000 

Science Lab - $75,000 

Classrooms - $50,000 

Concession/Cafe Area - $25,000 

Conference Room - $25,000 

Locker Room (Boys) - $25,000 

Locker Room (Girls) - $25,000 

Teacher’s Lounge First Floor - $25,000 

Study Hall/Commons Room - $25,000 


MIDDLE SCHOOL 


Dr. Caryn Long 

By Scott Werner, Middle School Science Teacher 

Dr. Rachel Adams, Dr. Caryn Long, Paul Quick 

A world-class science department requires expertise, 

collaboration, and dedication. It requires teachers that 

go above and beyond the call of the classroom to make 

science interactive, engaging, and meaningful. A key 

element ever-present is educators with passion. Dr. 

Caryn Long embodies every one of these characteristics 

and then some. I am honored to learn from and 

collaborate with such a consummate professional. Her 

consistent and relentless pursuit of excellence from her 

students is inspiring. She builds relationships with the 

science community at large to enhance each child's 

Montverde Academy experience and knowledge base. 

She is the epitome of Eagle Spirit and the MVA vision. 

“This year's Teacher of the Year award goes to 

someone who has been described as igniting passion, 

inspiring exploration, instilling eagerness for learning, 

and challenging yet equipping students to meet those 

challenges,ˮ said Mr. Paul Quick, Dean of the 

Middle School. 

Dr. Long has formed strong relationships with the 

science community that continue to enhance the learning 

experience in her classroom. Back in February, Dr. Long 

virtually brought the NASA Mars Rover to class as her 

sixth-grade students learned more about the engineering 

design process and participated in activities related to 

the mission. Her students also had the ability to engage 

in virtual presentations with Mr. Lyle Tavernier, Education 

Specialist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 

Pasadena, California, to learn more about the capsule 

that would enter the Mars atmosphere. 

“One quote comes to mind when I think of her class – 

ʻTake chances, make mistakes, and get messy!ʼ - Ms. 

Frizzle,ˮ said Ms. Joslyn Roberts-Judy, Middle School 

Science Teacher. “Dr. Long amplifies the importance of 

the scientific process for our Middle School students as 

they transition from the Lower School. She does it in a 

way that encourages their intrigue through observation. 

We’re lucky to have someone with her skill set on our 

Middle School science team.ˮ 

“Dr. Long is both an amazing person and an amazing 

teacher,ˮ said Ms. Loula Parks, Middle School Social 

Studies Teacher and Innovation Hour specialist. “She 

shares her passion for science with her students 

generously and with her background she is able to 

share connections to NASA and other organizations 

with which she has had long-standing commitments to 

and relationships. She has her students researching, 

investigating, and adding to the scientific body of 

knowledge by reporting some of their findings almost 

immediately. She is a star in every sense of the word, 

bringing energy and light to her students and colleagues 

alike. She is loved here.ˮ 

Dr. Long isn't just a science teacher, but an active 

member of the MVA community and can often be seen 

sporting her Outerspace-inspired wardrobe around 

campus, proving that science isn't just a passion, but a 

way of life. 

“When I came to Montverde Academy a couple of years 

ago, it was a dream come true,ˮ said Dr. Long in her 

acceptance speech. “It is easy to be inspired, not only 

by the amazing students that we have the privilege 

of teaching, but to have such a phenomenal group of 

colleagues that inspire you every single day. They are not 

only colleagues, but they are also family and they make 

me want to come to work every day. By far, they are the 

best group of people that I have ever worked with.ˮ 


Student’s Artwork 

Wins Silver Award 

in Toyota’s National 

Dream Car Contest 

By Andrea, Colby, Director of Communications 

Montverde Academy is extremely proud to announce 

Jiawei (Jery) Chen, an eighth-grade student, has had her 

drawing, “Fly Higher with Toyota,” earn a Silver Award 

in Age Category 3 (youth, ages 12-15 years old) of 

Toyota’s Dream Car Contest, and also won the inaugural 

Petersen Prestige Award. She is one of nine U.S. youth 

winners that goes on to the World Competition, where 

her work will be judged against artwork entries by youth 

from nearly 90 countries. 

“Fly Higher with Toyota” by Jery Chen 

“In addition to being a well-executed artwork with a 

remarkable composition, the museum selected Chen’s design because it aligns with our efforts to celebrate the past, 

present, and future of the automobile. Her vehicles harken to automobile design of the 1950s, yet she brings them into 

the future, imagining a world of eco-friendly flying cars,” said Autumn Nyiri, associate curator, Petersen Automotive 

Museum. 

“Creating art makes me happy,” said Jery. “I’ve been doing art since I was four-years-old. It allows me to express 

my ideas visually and share my happiness with others. I wanted to create a car that was innovative in a healthy 

environment. I made the car yellow, which is colorful, exciting and expressive - shining into the future. I love to create. I 

enjoying drawing and sewing, and hope to have my own clothing line or to become an animator.” 

Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan held the first worldwide contest in 2004, with nearly 90 countries now hosting their 

own national contests. Now in its 10th year, the Toyota Dream Car USA Art Contest is designed to inspire creativity in 

youth and imagine the future of mobility, according to the Toyota Dream Car USA website. The three-round competitive 

selection process of the contest allows for careful review over time to determine the winners. After assessing eligible 

entries and judging based on artistry, uniqueness, and execution of concept, U.S. Semi-Finalists are selected in the first 

round (this year, 30 each for two age categories, 40 for the remaining one). The second-round resulted in the selection 

of U.S. Finalists (this year, a total of 31). This year, the third round involves a panel of 12 national judges who choose 

the nine U.S. winners. 

Jery’s artwork will be displayed in the Petersen Automotive Museum. She will also have the unique opportunity to see 

her drawing become three-dimensional. With a unique collaboration involving undergraduate students from California 

State University, Dominguez Hills, 3D-printed interpretations of the contest’s award-winning designs. 

“We congratulate Jery on earning the Petersen Prestige Award and are so pleased that her artwork has been selected 

and recognized by Toyota Motor Corporation,” said Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring, Montverde Academy Head of School. “The 

Arts are an important part of Montverde Academy’s curriculum that encourages students to stretch their creativity, think 

in imaginative ways and express themselves through artistic exploration. We congratulate Jery on her achievement.” 


MVA in the NCAA 

TOURNAMENT 


There are almost eight million students who 

currently participate in high school athletics 

across the United States according to the 

National Collegiate Athletic Association 

(NCAA). From there, only about 480,000 

student-athletes go on to play sports at the 

collegiate level in the NCAA. 

17 

MVA Alumni in the Men’s 

Basketball Tournament 

2 

MVA Alumni in the Women’s 

Basketball Tournament 

28 

MVA Alumni in the Men’s 

Soccer Tournament 

2 

MVA Alumni in the Women’s 

Soccer Tournament 

Cade Cunningham ’20 


We are extremely excited to 

have had 17 former Eagle 

players competing in the 

NCAA Tournament. That’s 

more than top college 

basketball programs have! 

Kevin Boyle, Head Coach 

MVA experiences a higher than average number of 

student-athletes who play sports in college. In the 

class of 2021,70 of our student-athletes will go on to 

play sports in college. This year, MVA had more than 

40 student-athletes competing for championship titles 

in men’s and women’s basketball and soccer. For the 

men, there were 17 basketball players on 14 different 

teams, with three former Eagles in the final game; 28 

soccer players also on 14 different teams with three 

in the final game. There were two alumni in women’s 

basketball (Kseniia Kozlova ’20 and Ramani Parker 

’19) and two in soccer (Jody Brown ’20 and Vivienne 

Bessette ’20) competing. 

Sports came to a halt last year due to COVID-19, so 

this year’s NCAA Tournaments lacked fans as part 

of the ongoing safety protocols instituted nationwide, 

but certainly didn’t lack the excitement. There were 

unexpected upsets and amazing shots during the 

annual basketball tournament’s March Madness, such 

as the one that took Gonzaga to the final game, but all 

of MVA’s former players had outstanding performances. 

“We were extremely excited to have had 17 former 

Eagle players competing in the NCAA Tournament,” 

said Kevin Boyle, Head Coach. “That’s more than top 

college basketball programs have! It’s an achievement 

that we’re incredibly proud of and is a testament to 

the hard work and dedication our players have to their 

sport. Because of our previous success, we attract very 

good players and pride ourselves on getting studentathletes 

to meet and exceed expectations as players 

and as student-athletes.” 

The women’s basketball tournament was just as 

exciting, though Kseniia’s team was eliminated in the 

first round. Ramani’s Cardinals made it to the Elite 

Eight, falling to Stanford. 

BASKETBALL 

Scottie Barnes ’20 – Florida State University 

Darnell Brodie ’18 – Drake University 

Devante Carter ’17 – Norfolk State University 

Cade Cunningham ’20 – Oklahoma State University 

Odri Dedolli ’17 – Mount St. Mary’s 

Mike Devoe ’18 – Georgia Tech 

Zeb Jackson ’20 – University of Michigan 

Balsa Koprivica ’19 – Florida State University 

Moses Moody ’20 – University of Arkansas 

Andrew Nembhard ’18 – Gonzaga University 

Omar Payne ’19 – University of Florida 

Micah Potter ’16 – University of Wisconsin 

DayRon Sharpe ’20 – University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 

MaCio Teague ’16 – Baylor University 

Morris Udeze ’18 – Wichita State University 

Trevin Wade ’18 – Wichita State University 

Pavel Zakharov ’19 – Gonzaga University 

Scottie Barnes ’20 


Andrew Nembhard ’18 

Ramani Parker ’19 

There is no greater feeling 

than seeing your hard work 

payoff and land you an 

opportunity to compete 

in an NCAA tournament. 

I am so happy for our two 

alumni Kseniia and Ramani, 

who were both fortunate 

enough to make the NCAA 

tournament this year. It is so 

great for our current young 

ladies to see alumni being 

successful in college because 

the majority of our team 

aspires to play at that level. 

Special Jennings, Girls Basketball Head Coach 

Kseniia Kozlova ’20 


SOCCER 

Rodrigo Almeida ʼ18 – University of Pittsburgh 

Vinicius Belon ʼ20 – University of Pittsburgh 

Olivier Correa ʼ20 – Jacksonville University 

Pablo Diaz ʼ19 – Missouri State University 

Hamady Diop ʼ20 – Clemson University 

Matt Douglass ʼ18 – University of Central Florida 

Lucca Dourado ʼ20 – University of Central Florida 

Enrique Facusse ʼ17 – University of Kentucky 

Jose Facusse ʼ18 – Seton Hall University 

Jahlane Forbes – Wake Forest University 

Emmanuel Hagan ʼ20 – University of North Carolina, Greensboro 

Adam Kiernan ʼ19 – Marshall University 

Diogenes Kinyua ʼ19 – Virginia Tech 

Edward Kizza ʼ17, first round 2021 MLS Draft Pick – University of 

Pittsburgh 

Richard LaPointe ʼ20 – Jacksonville University 

Kameron Lacey ʼ19 – University of North Carolina Charlotte 

Xavier Laneuville ʼ19 – St. Francis College, Brooklyn 

Peter Mangione – Pennsylvania State University 

Justin Malou ʼ17 – Clemson University 

Philip Mayaka ʼ19, first round 2021 MLS Draft Pick – Clemson 

University 

Joao Pedro Souza ʼ19 – Marshall University 

Anderson Rosa ʼ20 – University of Central Florida 

Soshun Shigaki ʼ20 – University of Pittsburgh 

Gabriel Simoneau ʼ19 – Jacksonville University 

Gabe Sitler ʼ19 – Marshall University 

Ousmane Sylla ʼ20 – Clemson University 

Jackson Walti ʼ18 – University of Pittsburgh 

Welnilton Junior ʼ20 – Virginia Tech 

Emmanuel Hagan’20 

The men’s soccer tournament had Clemson University 

chosen as the No. 1 seed, which had four former SIMA 

players, including Philip Mayaka, MLS first round 2021 

Draft Pick. The Tigers had a great year, winning the 

ACC Championship match to automatically qualify 

for their 33rd NCAA Tournament. The University of 

Pittsburgh started the 2020 season with five MVA alumni 

including scoring sensation Edward Kizza, also a first 

round MLS draft pick. Three other conference champion 

rosters have three SIMA alumni, from American Athletic 

Conference Champions University of Central Florida 

(UCF), to Jacksonville University the A-SUN Conference 

Champions, and Marshall University the Conference USA 

Champions. 

“This is historic for the SIMA program and a testament to 

everything we value,” said Mike Potempa, SIMA Director. 

“We believe that focusing on education and sport to 

provide opportunity is a powerful formula for long-term 

success. Having 28 alumni, playing across 14 different 

NCAA Division I Programs in the National Tournament is 

outstanding, and continues to set the standard for current 

SIMA student-athletes who work hard to achieve similar 

milestones. We wish our alumni continued success.” 


Having 28 alumni playing 

across 14 different NCAA 

Division I programs in the 

National Tournament is 

outstanding and continues 

to set the standard for 

current SIMA studentathletes 

who work hard to 

achieve similar milestones. 

Mike Potempa, SIMA Director 

Edward Kizza ’18 

Lucca Dourado ’20 

Olivier Correa’20 


The women’s soccer tournament featured Florida State 

University as the No. 1 seed, which had Jody Brown ’20, 

FIFA 2018 World Cup Jamaica player. 

“Both Jody and Vivianne were integral pieces to our 

MIFC program over the last three years. We anticipated 

both would have a great college year. Both players were 

fortunate to win conference championships as well as 

conference tournament championships. 

Jody was able to reach the championship game in the 

NCAA tournament and Vivianne reached the 2nd round. 

We are proud how far both players have become and are 

excited for their future” said Robbie Aristodemo, Director 

of MIFC. 

Jody Brown ’20 

Both Jody and Vivianne 

were integral pieces to 

our MIFC program over 

the last three years. We 

anticipated both would 

have a great college year. 

Robbie Aristodemo, MIFC Director 

Vivienne Bissette ’20 


Sports Wrap Up WINTER & SPRING 

By Cole Kellogg, Sports Information Director 

GIRLS BASKETBALL 

Our girls’ basketball program reached new heights under 

Coach Jennings and Coach Adams, earning and maintaining 

the No. 1 national ranking by MaxPreps for several weeks 

during the season. They finished with a 22-2 record, 

remaining undefeated on the road with notable wins over 

Braden River, Forest Park, American Heritage, and Palm 

Bay. The team will graduate four seniors, all committed to 

play in college. 

BOYS BASKETBALL 

Our varsity boys’ basketball team reigns best in the nation 

with their GEICO Nationals win over Sunrise Christian 62- 

52. The team will graduate six seniors, all with impressive 

college prospects. The Center for Basketball Development 

(CBD) held their Golden Cup Championship and State vs. 

State Championship games. The Rockets, coached by 

varsity players Sam Walters, Malik Reneau, and Justice 

Williams won their bracket while the Lakers coached by 

Jalen Duren and Jalen Hood Schifino were victorious in 

the second bracket. Coach Piggott’s State White team won 

the State Championship match-up vs. Coach Miller’s State 

Purple team. 

TRACK AND FIELD 

In her swansong season, Coach Lori Treweek led the MVA 

Track and Field team to an outstanding finish, with our girls 

placing third overall at state and our boys finishing fifth. 

The Eagles left the state meet with three individual state 

champions in Lily Henne (1600m), Weston Baptiste (400m) 

and Alex Georgiev (pole vault). Our female pole vaulters also 

finished strong, with senior Kai Eisenhardt nabbing second 

and Ashley Conklin placing third. They will graduate seven 

seniors and five will compete collegiately. 

BEACH VOLLEYBALL 

Coach Rico Pereira led a very young team into the season 

and came through with some solid wins amidst a tough 

schedule. These wins include 4-1 against Lakeland High 

School, 3-0 against Foundation Academy, 5-0 over West 

Orange High School, and back-to-back wins over Winter 

Haven. Senior student-athlete Gianna Carrasco emerged 

as the team’s MVP, while Jadyn Langley and Rose Palanti 

made huge strides over the season. Senior Alexandra 

Lin committed to Hendrix College to continue her beach 

volleyball career. 

TENNIS 

The Tennis Academy hosted their first Universal Tennis 

Rating (UTR) event the year. This match-play format 

boasted nine MVA student-athlete participants competing 

in two different matches against athletes of similar level. 

Catharina Schoch, Luiza Patocs, and Adam Townsend all 

went undefeated with two wins on the day. The program will 

graduate two seniors in Filippo Marangoni and 

Gabriela Souza. 

BOYS LACROSSE 

It was another year of growth for our lacrosse program, 

with the boys earning the title of District Champions and 

narrowly missing out on a bid to the state tournament. Coach 

Chris Spaulding’s team ended the year with a 13-5 record 

after putting in admirable performances against the state’s 

elite competition. The boys nearly pulled off a whirlwind 

comeback against Lake Highland Prep in Regionals, but 

time ran out with the Highlanders winning 16-17. The team 

graduates six seniors, four will play collegiately. 

BASEBALL 

The MVA baseball team ended the season 12-7, competing 

multiple times against some of the top teams in Florida and 

the country. The baseball team graduates six seniors this 

year, with two going on to play in college. Congratulations to 

Coach Valencia and his team, we look forward to continued 

success moving forward! 

SOFTBALL 

Coach Caitlin Griffis led a young team into the season with 

the expectation of patience and growth. In the end, their 

10-8 record is very respectable considering three losses 

were by fewer than three runs, and five wins came with a 

run differential of ten or higher. Two of these wins were over 

teams ranked in the top 25 in Florida. 

Faith Fournier pitched in all but one game, managing to keep 

some of Florida’s top hitters off the bags, while Emerson 

Gunkel earned her first varsity strike out and complete game 

as just a seventh-grader. Freshman Jenna Meder was an 

RBI leader for the team. 

Seasoned player, Makayla Navarro got her first high school 

career home run this year and led the team in batting 

average and stolen bases. Miliani Guzman led the team as 

this year’s captain and an RBI leader. And senior Ashleigh 

Smith committed to play collegiately to Montreat College. 

POWERLIFTING 

In his first year as Powerlifting Head Coach, Steven Cerenzio 

led his team to the title of Best Overall Team at the USA 

Powerlifting Florida State High School Championships. The 

Eagles left the event with four gold and two silver medals. 

Colby Helms, David Dalia, Oliver Dixon and Barrett Bobilin 

earned gold, while CJ Hamlin and Jason Kong earned silver. 

EQUESTRIAN 

Our Equestrian center fielded a varsity and junior varsity 

team featuring 18 riders and competed in a combined 10 

events including the first annual Halloween Spectacular 

hosted at MVA. Our riders brought home several Champion 

and Reserve placements in various events and earned 

several personal jump records. The Barn also welcomed 

home six new lesson horses for the 27 lesson students in 

the program. The Equestrian center also recently created 

an Eventing Team that currently has four rides competing in 

various events. 


Anjika Andrade Mariana Valenzuela Max Smith 

Alex Georgiev 

Miliani Guzman 

Varsity Boys Basketball Team 

Ella Holt 

Manuel Retana 

CJ Hamlin 


COLLEGE SIGNING DAY 

Congratulations to our student-athletes who announced their college decisions during our last Signing Day on May 5, 

2021 bringing our total count to 67 MVA Eagles committing to compete at the collegiate level. 

1 2 3 4 

8 9 10 11 


16 17 18

Go Eagles! 

5 6 

7 

12 13 14 15 

19 20 21 

1. Samuel Odame 

2. Giovanna Do Amaral 

3. Luc Granitur 

4. Preston Matia 

5. Zack Semmler 

6. Weston Baptiste 

7. Maria Myklebust 

8. Valentina Ojeda 

9. Carlo Controni 

10. Darian Mayo 

11. Richard Sancio 

12. Angel Lopez 

13. Isabella Ramirez 

14. Quinten Diboundje 

Eyobo 

15. Artur Corso 

16. Matthew Frick 

17. Josh Richardson 

18. Joao Lucas 

Dominici 

19. Matis Pilon 

St. Louis 

20. Chadi Mayati 

21. Christian Maciel 

22. Ashleigh Smith, not 

pictured 


Achievement in 

the Arts 

By Dean Bell, Director of Arts 


Cast of “Something Rotten”

Aidan Fracker and Kaylin Gines in “Macbeth” 

Choral Cabaret 

As I write this article, I felt disillusioned – another article about how we survived, 

but thrived, as an Arts program amidst the global pandemic. Certainly, that is at the 

forefront of my thoughts as we finish the school year, and I am undeniably proud of the 

creativity and innovation in programming and venue selection that allowed the season 

to happen. Nevertheless, I could not bring myself to write another article that took us 

down that path. Instead, I reshaped my remarks around “achievement” – an obviously 

related and more positive theme. 

The definition of achievement reads: “a thing done 

successfully, typically by effort, courage or skill.” 

Let’s begin with the obvious. It is a remarkable 

achievement that amidst COVID-19, MVA’s Fine Arts 

programs produced an entire season of events, almost 

exactly as we imagined it in July 2020. Our combination of 

scaled-back casts, virtual performances, outdoor venues, 

masking, socially distant staging, quarantining, and safety 

plans for face-to-face audiences proved to be right on the 

mark and served as an example for other Arts programs’ 

reimagined productions. I offer the highest praise to staff 

who designed and executed plans, students who made 

it work and our parents and community who supported 

us. The fact that we created 66 nights of events amidst 

the uncertainty of this year stands as a beacon to other 

Arts institutions who struggle to move forward in this 

new normal. The motto of our Music Conservatory has 

long been “Obdura: Persist,” which is exactly what this 

achievement suggests we have done, and done well. 

I am mindful of the achievement of our incredibly skilled 

teaching artists who serve as faculty in these programs. 

In a year of reinvention, many of us threw out what had 

served as absolutes in our instructional pedagogy and 

found new ways to engage students whether face-to-face, 

hybrid or online. Technology, distance learning, innovative 

curriculum and programming, and new techniques to 

teach age-old disciplines made each of us step up our 

game, while continuing to keep up with professional 

careers outside of MVA. I am particularly proud of Ms. 

Roberta Emerson, Theatre Director, who established 

herself as the Artistic Producing Consultant for Central 

Florida Community Arts, and the Associate Artistic Director 

for the Garden Theatre. There is little doubt that MVA’s 

strong programming and innovation were key qualities in 

demonstrating Ms. Emerson’s leadership capabilities to 

these remarkable organizations. That the rest of Central 

Florida looks to our faculty as leaders in their disciplines 

demonstrates the high achievement of our educators. 


Megan Lindberg 

Cast of “Something Rotten” 

One cannot overlook the contributions of our patrons 

– specifically, our Arts Alliance members and Mrs. Mary- 

Kay Rath, Arts Alliance Executive Director. In a year filled 

with greater financial uncertainty than in recent memory, 

we grew our Arts Alliance support base, and provided 

significant funding for our programs and infrastructure. Our 

patrons continued to make MVA Arts programs a priority 

in their giving, which speaks highly to the support of what 

we are accomplishing here, and a commitment to continue 

to raise MVA’s presence on the state and national stages. 

Arts Alliance receptions have become a mainstay of our 

events, and with limited seating opportunities, Arts Alliance 

members received unequaled access to all our events in 

whatever format they appeared. Creating and maintaining 

this culture of patronage is indeed an accomplishment. 

I feel that our numbers are also an accomplishment: 

• 85 percent of Conservatory students earned Honor Roll 

recognition each quarter – an average of 19 earning 

Summa Cum Laude 

• Six Top Honors, 35 Superior ratings, and six Excellent 

ratings earned by Theatre students at Regional 

International Thespian Society (ITS) Competition 

• Two Top Honors, 11 Superior and two Excellent ratings 

were received at State ITS Competition 

• Three Consecutive years of selection as Mainstage 

production for State ITS 

• Four Consecutive years winning Top Honors for One Act 

at State ITS 

• Three of nine State ITS Scholarships awarded to MVA 

students 

• Nine of nine students submitted for Applause Award 

Outstanding Performer consideration advanced to the 

live auditions 

• One selection as Featured Mainstage selection at 

the International Thespian Festival (Top 6 selection 

internationally) 

• Five Superior with Distinction ratings, 25 Superior 

ratings, and six Excellent ratings earned by MVA 

musicians at Florida Music Education Association 

competition 

• 64 audition invitations were extended to our seniors for 

colleges across the country 

• Twelve of twelve Fine Arts seniors accepted into Fine 

Arts colleges to continue pursuing the Arts 

• 4,589 views of MVA virtual performances online 

• 1,757 face-to-face patrons for our live shows 

Lastly, I must highlight the achievement of our seniors. 

In an unparalleled audition year, our seniors amassed 

64 audition invitations and received 32 acceptances 

from top tier colleges nationwide. That all twelve of our 

Conservatory seniors intend to pursue a career in the Arts 

is an achievement even the elite Arts high schools would 

be hard-pressed to top. Given their acceptances, financial 

offers, and the quality of the institutions, I would wager 

there are few schools producing a stronger class moving 

on to the next level in the Arts. This achievement makes 

me the proudest. Montverde Academy students will be 

leading and shaping the future of Arts programs across 

the country for years to come - that is a testament to 

everything that has been built on this campus, and we are 

inordinately proud. 


Vaasu Gadiparthi 

Lower School Performance 

The fact that we created 

66 nights of events 

amidst the uncertainty 

of this year stands as 

a beacon to other Arts 

institutions who struggle 

to move forward in this 

new normal. 

Dean Bell 

So, when I reflect on “courage,” I know what 

it took to envision, create and execute this 

theatre season. When I reflect on “effort,” 

I need look no further than our numbers to 

see exactly that. And, when I reflect on “skill,” 

the very model of the word is exemplified in 

our teachers and our students, led by our 

very talented seniors. If those three things 

are the indicators of achievement, I believe 

Montverde Academy’s Fine Arts and the 2020- 

21 season is a “thing done successfully,” and 

an achievement worth celebrating. I am glad to 

have been along for the journey! 

APPLAUSE AWARDS 

Congratulations to our Theatre Department and students on 

an amazingly successful year at the Applause Awards, held 

annually by the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. 

Winners included: 

Outstanding Musical – “Something Rotten” 

Outstanding Technical Achievement – “Something Rotten” 

Outstanding Director – Roberta Emerson 

Outstanding Musical Director – Dean Bell 

Outstanding Lighting Design – Kathy Wiebe-LaPlante 

Outstanding Choreographer – Christopher Payen 

Outstanding Costume Design – Kat Henwood 

Outstanding Set Design – Tramaine Berryhill 

Outstanding Singer – Lily Downs 

Outstanding Singer – Amelie Jaime 

Outstanding Actor – Isabella Crider 

Outstanding Actor – Aiden Bjortvedt 

Outstanding Performer – Sydney Barker* 

Outstanding Performer – Aidan Corrie* 

Outstanding Performer – Caiti Fallon* 

Outstanding Performer – Aidan Fracker* 

Outstanding Performer – Logan Lopez* 

Outstanding Performer – Anthony Morehead* 

*The six Outstanding Performers will be competing on June 5 

at the Applause Awards ceremony for the two coveted spots 

which advance them to the National Jimmy Awards. 


FINE ARTS 

SIGNING DAY 


Ambria Benjamin 

Theatre Conservatory 

Boston University 

Aiden Bjortvedt 


Purchase College (SUNY) 

Aidan Corrie 


Arcadia University 

Isabella Crider 


Roosevelt University 

Caiti Fallon 


University of Minnesota 

Aidan Fracker 


Wright State University 

Yanbo “Frank” Guo 

Music Conservatory 

Univ. of Southern California 

Lauren Kiernan 

Music Conservatory 


Logan Lopez 



Cynthia Lu 


Savannah College of Art & Design 

Anthony Morehead 


Point Park University 

Jordan Rodriguez 


Univ. of North Carolina 

School of the Arts 

Conservatory seniors in the Class of 2021 at Montverde 

Academy have been accepted into some of the most 

prestigious colleges and universities in the United States, 

earning more than $315,000 in scholarships to pursue 

their passions. A Fine Arts Signing Day was hosted 

to honor 12 seniors in the Theatre Conservatory and 

Music Conservatory to celebrate their achievements in 

advancing their journey in the arts. Students amassed 

more than 70 auditions and have chosen to pursue 

their passion for music and theatre at some of the most 

challenging college and university Arts programs in the 

country such as Boston University, Savannah College of 

Art & Design, University of Southern California, University 

of North Carolina School of the Arts, and more. 

“We congratulate these students on their achievements 

throughout their journey in our Music and Theatre 

Conservatories,” said Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring, 

Montverde Academy Head of School. “It is through 

hard work, sacrifice, dedication, and perseverance that 

these students have accomplished such success. A 

determination and love of the arts has led each of them 

to pursue their passion for music or theatre into notable 

colleges and universities nationwide. We wish them well 

in the next stage and hope to see them back on our MVA 

stage encouraging young students to pursue the Arts.” 

Also in attendance, were a number of notable and highly 

respected industry professionals, who have supported the 

students and were present to congratulate the students 

on their achievements including Mr. Michael James Scott, 

award-winning Broadway actor; Mr. Joseph Walsh, Artistic 

Director of the Garden Theatre; Ms. Kristen Neander, 

District 12 Chair, State Thespian Board Member; and Ms. 

Laura Peete, Director of Education, Dr. Phillips Center for 

Performing Arts, Applause Awards Director. 

“This is an unprecedented moment and I am impressed 

and inspired that the Montverde Academy team has made 

this Fine Arts Signing Day happen,” said Michael James 

Scott in his comments to the students. “The things you 

have learned here will resonate for the rest of your life. 

Believe in the thing in you that is special, because no 

one else has it but you. Never stop learning. Embrace 

unapologetic intention.” 


MONTVERDE ACADEMY 

2021-22 THEATRE SEASON 

by Mallory Vance 

FALL 2021 

WHITE 

By James Ijames 

FALL 2021 

Presenting Sponsor 

for the 2021-22 Fine Arts Season 

WORLD PREMIERE 

WINTER 2021 

Much Ado 

About Nothing 

by William Shakespeare 

WINTER 2022 

For more information on season tickets, 

email mary-kay.rath@montverde.org SPRING 2022 


RELATIONS 

By Nyoshie Higgins, Alumni Relations and Engagement Officer 

As a recent addition to the MVA Alumni and Advancement 

team, I am excited to develop programs and generate 

content that drives engagement, strengthens alumni 

relationships, and creates networking opportunities for 

our graduates. My work with the pre-alumni student 

organization and the Alumni Board will allow me access to 

different perspectives that can better enhance the alumni 

experience and relationships with the Academy. 

I am thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the 

Academy and deliver results from my diverse background 

and wealth of experience in communication. Alumni 

can stay informed through email and our social media 

channels including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 

With the start of the 2021-22 school year already in the 

near future, we plan to return to our favored alumni events 

like the Alumni Homecoming, while sprinkling in new 

events, both on and off campus. 

MVA's mission of knowledge, character, and community is 

second nature to me as I have volunteered as Parent Co- 

Chair for the annual Diversity Fest since 2016 and am a 

proud MVA parent of a rising fifth-grade student, Aamirah. 

This summer is the perfect time to start planning in-person 

and virtual meetings to continue to connect with alumni 

around the world. With this in mind, we are looking to 

create a space for alumni where they can feel like they are 

part of the community even from a distance. If anything, 

the pandemic experience has opened our world to virtual 

spaces, which in turn, will help us reach distant alumni. 


Dr. Mongeon with Allison Fitzgerald ʼ20 

ALLISON FITZGERALD ’20 

By Allison Fitzgerald ʼ20 

This past fall, I decided it was best for me to take a 

semester off from attending school at Berklee College of 

Music and wait until I could be in Boston to attend classes, 

as classes were only online due to COVID-19. Luckily, 

I got the opportunity to work alongside Dr. Jeannine 

Mongeon, Instrumental Music Teacher, during her Middle 

School orchestra period and Music Conservatory classes. 

I helped teach the children to tune their instruments and 

provided extra one-on-one help with the students in 

class working on technique and reading music. As for the 

conservatory classes, I helped fill out the orchestra by 

playing their music along with them. 

Fall Intern for Dr. Mongeon 

to inspire students the way I was inspired, was an offer too 

good to pass up, even if it was only once a week. 

This opportunity has definitely shown me the great 

discipline and hard work it takes to be a teacher, let alone 

a music teacher and during a pandemic. By talking to 

the Middle School students as new musicians, I gained 

new perspectives I never would have been able to get 

in college as everyone is already trained. Some of the 

techniques we used to teach younger students can 

definitely be used for our whole lives and I will be applying 

them to my own teaching and learning style as well. 

As I couldn’t help in person every day, I also took up the 

opportunity to tutor AP Music Theory online for students 

who benefitted from extra attention. Dr. Mongeon is an 

extremely talented musician and teacher, who is truly a 

superhero. She taught all of the orchestra classes and 

lessons herself, both online and in person. I was very 

blessed to be able to come in once a week and help out in 

any way that I could. Not only did I get to help the students 

learn, but they taught me how to be a better teacher. 

I was a student at Montverde Academy and participated in 

the Music Conservatory. If it weren’t for the Conservatory, 

specifically Dr. Mongeon, Mr. Claassen, Mr. Connelly, and 

Mrs. Mincy, I would not be half the musician and student 

I am today. After experiencing the true passion and love 

for music within the Conservatory, I decided to take on 

the path of being a musician professionally and going to 

college for music. Being able to return to the place that 

played a significant role in crafting who I am today and try 

Something I thought was a learning curve for me 

personally was no longer being only the students’ peer, 

but the teachers’ peer as well. I could still be friendly 

with the students as we could relate to similar things. 

They shared with me the struggles they are having with 

doing online school and how they felt about missing 

opportunities. Being in that middle ground, I was able 

to see and hear the struggles of both teaching and 

learning during this difficult time. I enjoyed taking part 

in discussions about how teachers could better teach 

subjects that were harder to learn and providing input on 

different ideas. 

I think the hardest part about this past fall was the inability 

to prepare for live concerts. A really big part of learning 

music is the fine-tuning process that occurs to ensure 

that a performance is ready. I wish I got to see those kids 

perform because they are all so incredibly talented! 


1 2 

3 

4 

5 6 

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 

1955 

COOKIE FALING DAVIS 

celebrated her 80th 

birthday in 2021! 

1984 

(1) High school 

sweethearts, ER 

RADCLIFFE and AMBER 

LEWIS celebrated being 

reunited by visiting and 

touring our campus. 

2009 

(2) ZAKIYA NEWTON 

graduated from the 

Culinary Institute of 

America with a Bachelors 

in Baking and Pastry Arts 

Management in 2012. 

Kia worked at several 

upscale restaurants in 

Miami and mastered her 

baking skills. She moved 

back to Orlando, married, 

has two little boys and 

founded Celestial Sweets 

by Kia. Her company will 

be celebrating its threeyear 

anniversary this June. 

Congrats! 

RUSTAV PAVLEV 

graduated from Arizona 

State University and 

returned to Europe to play 

professional basketball for 

Russia and Poland. He 

married last summer and 

now has a four-month-old 

baby boy! 

2011 

(3) MARK OVERDEVEST 

and wife Laura gave birth 

to their first child Andrew 

John Edward Overdevest 

on March 14. Congrats! 

(4) Congratulations to 

EMILIA TAUTIVA on her 

recent engagement and 

success in the field of 

technology. 

Congratulations 

JENNIFER LEE on your 

first year in the Mayo 

Clinic Jacksonville 

Anesthesiology program! 

2012 


LAUREN ROBERTSON 

and her husband Travis 

Stulz on their marriage. 

2013 

(6) Congratulations 

to KATE (JONES) 

CROWELL! She married 

Black Crowell on March 28 

at The Vineyards in Betty’s 

Creek in Sylva, NC. 


KAILIN KESSELRING on 

her recent engagement and 

celebrating two years as 

a business owner with K. 

Ellen Boutique 

2014 

Congratulations to BAILEY 

WARD who is now the 

Associate Manufacturing 

Engineer at QUEST 

Global in the Los Angeles 

Metropolitan Area. 

JULIA BUDDENDORFF 

graduated in May from 

the University of Florida 

College of Medicine and 

has moved to Jacksonville 

to start a residency in 

Emergency Medicine. She 

also recently got engaged! 

SAMANTHA SIMMONS 

is graduating from Stetson 

Law School and will begin 

her career as a Prosecutor 

for the 6th Judicial Circuit in 

Pinellas County. 

2015 

GLORIA KATUKA is 

approaching her first year 

as a Ph.D. student in the 

Department of Computer 

& Information Science & 

Engineering at University of 

Florida. Good luck! 


7 8 9 

10 11 12 

Congratulations to JAKE 

LABRADOR and his 

wife McCayla on the 

announcement of her 

pregnancy! 

ANGEL CAMPBELL 

graduated from Navy USS 

LEYTE GULF. She will be 

serving as Quartermaster. 

Congratulations FRANK 

AGBASIMERE who was 

drafted to the Calgary 

Stampeders to play 

football! 

(8) GIULIA BONARA won 

our first annual March 

Madness NCAA bracket 

contest! She recently 

completed her Bachelor’s 

in Electrical Energy 

Engineering with honors at 

the University of Bologna 

and is currently pursuing 

her Master’s Degree in the 

same field at the University 

of Bologna. 

2016 

KEVIN MCDONNELL 

graduated from Niagara 

University in 2020 and is 

working in Buffalo, NY for 

AmeriCorps in a legal aid 

center. 

HALLIE PITNER graduated 

from Embry-Riddle in 

2020 with a finance and 

accounting degree and is 

currently at University of 

Tennessee pursuing a dual 

MBA and MSBA (business 

analytics). 

IRISA ZHOU graduated 

from McGill University in 

2019 as an Economics 

and Math major and is 

currently pursuing a Ph.D 

at University of Toronto. 


PIA MILAN GREEN on 

receiving The Nell Hamilton 

Trotter Student Leadership 

Award! This award 

recognizes an outstanding 

commitment to student 

involvement and it is the 

highest student leadership 

award presented by 

Georgia State University. 


KARL ANDY BELL. He 

made the Olympic roster 

(soccer) for his home 

country of Haiti. 

2017 

Congratulations to 

FEDERICO BARRIOS 

RUBIO. He is a Co- 

Founder at Fun4House: 

Emotional Learning 

Community. 

Congratulations to 

MACKENZIE NAILOS. 

She’s heading to 

Vanderbilt Law School 

after graduating from the 

University of Florida in 

April. 

(11) JACOB PRICE will 

graduate in June with 

a USCG National 3rd 

Mate Unlimited License 

and plans to work in the 

maritime industry along 

with serving in the US Navy 

Reserves. 

ISOBEL HAYNES 

graduated from Flagler 

College in 2020 with BA in 

Criminology and is headed 

to Penn State to pursue 

a Master of Professional 

Studies in Homeland 

Security. 


HENRIQUE FACUSSE. 

He made the Olympic 

roster (soccer) for his home 

country of Honduras. 


14 15 16 

17 

18 19 

2018 

(14) Congratulations to ELLE 

NEWTON who graduated Magna 

Cum Laude from Florida State 

University after three years with 

a B.S. in Political Science, a 

minor in Communications and a 

specialist certification in Emergency 

Management and Homeland Security. 

She will be attending FAMU College 

of Law in Orlando on a Deans 

Scholarship. 

Congratulations to KAITLYNN 

HERNANDEZ who is one of the 

founding members of the first 

multicultural sorority at Bowie State 

University! 

(15) Congratulations to BENJI 

MICHEL. He made the Olympic roster 

(soccer) for the United States. 

(16) Congrats to BRUNO PESSOA 

of Warner University on being named 

to the First Team All-Sun Conference 

(tennis). The accolade is given to 

only the best six players within the 

conference. 


2019 

(17) LOVE-STAR ALEXIS came back 

from an injury in spring 2021 and 

earned 10 wins in singles and 11 wins 

in doubles this season. 

(18) CADE CUNNINGHAM will 

be entering the NBA draft and is 

projected to be a first round draft pick. 

Good luck! 

MILA KUJALA was featured in a 

documentary series produced by 

students at Oulu University of Applied 

Science. The episode is about 

Alopecia and how she has learned 

to live without hair and how it has 

impacted her life. 

Congratulations to SIMA alumni 

ADAM KIERNAN, JOAO PEDRO 

SOUZA, and GABE SITLER 

on winning the NCAA National 

Championship with Marshall 

University! 

2020 

Congratulations to MATTHEW 

KAREN who was recently awarded 

the Richard A. Mateer Award for 

Outstanding Contributions from the 

University of Richmond! This award 

recognizes five students of character, 

scholarship, and leadership from 

each class. 

(19) Congratulations to Music 

Conservatory alum ZAYNA 

JEBAILEY on her recently released a 

new single! 

Congratulations to JACK 

KAMSICKAS on his new position 

as a PGA Intern at one of the 

world’s most prestigious golf clubs, 

Fishers Island Country Club, 

NY! Jack is attending Clemson 

University and completing a dual 

major to earn a Bachelor of Science 

in Business Management and in 

Parks, Recreation, and Tourism 

Management.

17th Annual Celebrating Education 

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT! 

Thank you sponsors! 

The Rainbow Room Sponsors 

The Empire Room Sponsors 

Advanced Faces 

Clermont Radiology 

Dr. and Mrs. Kasey C. Kesselring 

EA Tours 

Gene and Claudio Capuano 

Germana Engineering and Associates, LLC 

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa 

MMI Dining Systems 

Orlando Health - South Lake Hospital 

The Showplace Sponsors 

Paterson Services, Inc. 

Plastic Surgery Central Florida 

Prime Plumbing, Inc. 

Risse Brothers School Uniforms 

Seacoast Bank 

The Brown Family 

The Johnson Family 

NIDY Sports Construction 

United Southern Bank 


1 

17th Annual Celebrating Education 

Fundraising Event 

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT! 

SATURDAY, 

APRIL 24, 2021 

4 

5 

7 8 


2 

3 

6 

9 

1. Breck Advisory 

2. The Killian Family 

3. Samantha Robinson, Hannah and John Weaver, Yordin Robinson, 

Andre Chuck, Nyoshie Higgins, Margaret Price 

4. Powell Studio Architecture 

5. Shannan Bjortvedt, Kalena Meyers, Anna Bird, Aiden Bjortvedt, 


6. Cynthia and Gary Schindele 

7. Cast of “Something Rotten” 

8. Dr. Kasey C. and Maureen Kesselring 

9. Andrea Colby, Carla Gilbert, Kalena Meyers, Marketa Kozisek, 

Charlotte JeBailey, April Sayer, Johanna Martin, Danielle Tanis, 

Elske Palmer 

10. Michael and Sharon Palanti, Katty and Alex Parent 

10 


Montverde Academy 

17235 Seventh Street 

Montverde, FL 34756 

SAVE 

THE 

DATE 

NEW VENUE! 

Green Valley Country Club 

FRIDAY 

OCT. 8, 2021 

SPONSORSHIPS 

AVAILABLE! 

FIND OUT MORE TODAY! 

Email kalena.meyers@montverde.org

Tower Summer 2021

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